Aloke Bajpai, co-founder and CEO of ixigo.com, highlighted the lack of public awareness around the health risks. He shared his experience of sending his children to school wearing masks, only to face questions from other parents regarding the necessity.
Observing elderly individuals continuing outdoor activities despite hazardous air, Bajpai questioned the absence of public health campaigns to raise awareness about the long-term health risks of such exposure.
Some online commenters pointed out that while masks can help to an extent, they are not fully effective against polluted air. Others suggested that those who can afford it should consider relocating to areas with cleaner air for the sake of their family’s health, though Bajpai noted that relocating isn’t a practical solution for everyone.
Netizens shared their growing concerns about the worsening air quality. Many have expressed that wearing N99 masks has become a necessity just to step outside, with some even opting for them while cycling due to the excessive dust. A noticeable improvement in sleep quality has been reported by those who take precautions.
One user mentioned that their seven-year-old has been one of the few children wearing a mask at the school bus stop in their condo complex over the past few weeks.
As air pollution continues to rise, checking the AQI has become as routine as checking the weather. Delhi’s air quality has been dangerously high for years, with cities like Mumbai and Kolkata now grappling with similar