Fiinovation - It's no secret that Delhi is the most polluted city and its air quality is considered the worst in the world. Last year, Delhi’s air quality deteriorated than that of Beijing. The latter has seen public protests, widespread donning of face masks, government declaration of war against polluters and now it plans to build air domes.

1. Dealing with Delhi’s Air Pollution
It's no secret that Delhi is the most polluted city and its air quality is considered the worst in
the world. Last year, Delhi’s air quality deteriorated than that of Beijing. The latter has seen
public protests, widespread donning of face masks, government declaration of war against
polluters and now it plans to build air domes. While India still struggles to improve the quality
of air, recent bans and controversial decisions of the government and National Green Tribunal
has ensured a sense of urgency with regards to air quality degradation. As the government
and other agencies look into policy aspect of this, here is what Fiinovation believes that we as
individuals can do to deal with air pollution in Delhi.
1. Avoid Auto Rickshaws – Though the auto rickshaws are a major source of
transportation in Delhi, travelling in them can lead to more inhalation of poor air than
travelling in a covered vehicle. Travelling in an auto rickshaw increases the exposure to
particulate matter and black carbon. The solution to this problem can be to avoid travelling in
rickshaws while sitting in a car with windows rolled up is a better option. While commuting in
a car, the air should be allowed to re-circulate instead of pulling in air from outside. If you
don’t have a car, use public transport such as buses, metro, trams etc. that are covered.
2. Air Purifiers – Many people are installing air purifiers at homes. Though the cost is
quite high for a majority of the people, many are spending lakhs on fitting air purifiers for
their homes. The schools and colleges must also adopt these measures and ensure that children
and youth get to breathe safe air.
3. Staying Home – The Delhi government should take initiative to close down
schools and colleges on days with higher pollution. In the interest of employees, companies
should allow them day off, on days when the pollution gets bad.
4. Vacation or Pollu-cation – A weekend getaway can revive your lungs. The
best thing to do is go on vacations. Just a few hours’ drive to the Himalayan foothills clears
the air. It is best to drive out of Delhi on weekends, breathe some fresh air in the Himalayan
settings and then return.
5. Consultations with Air Experts – It is good to check the pollution levels
at home. There are consultants who will visit your home, check the pollution level and
suggest filters and fixtures that can ensure you breathe fresh air at home and workplace.
By Rahul Choudhury
Media and Communication - Fiinovation
fiinovation