Devanjana Mukherjee, Khabri Media
It is a call to action for governments, industries, and individuals to work together in finding long-term solutions to protect the health and well-being of Noida’s residents, especially its children.
Pic: Social Media
In a bid to protect the health and well-being of students and staff, schools in Noida, a rapidly growing satellite city of Delhi, will remain closed until at least November 10. The decision to extend the closure comes as a response to the alarming levels of air pollution that have gripped the National Capital Region (NCR), including Noida. To subscribe please click tau.id/2iy6f and access our live channel.
READ: Centre imposes vehicle restrictions
Noida, like many other cities in the NCR, has been grappling with the menace of air pollution for several weeks. The situation typically worsens during the post-monsoon months of October and November, when various factors converge to create a toxic atmospheric cocktail.
Factors like stubble burning in neighboring states, vehicular emissions, industrial activities, construction dust, and unfavorable meteorological conditions trap pollutants close to the ground, thus creating hazardous gases.
Pic: Social Media
Children are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of air pollution due to their developing respiratory systems and smaller lung capacity. Prolonged exposure to polluted air can lead to a host of health issues, including respiratory illnesses like asthma and bronchitis, reduced lung function, and even cognitive development problems.
DON’T MISS: Doctors’ take on AQIhttps://khabrimedia.com/doctors-advice-for-pollution/
On Tuesday, Noida’s average AQI was above 300 — in the ‘very poor’ category. The AQI in Greater Noida was severe — 447 at Knowledge Park III station, 457 at Knowledge Park V station — at 3pm, according to the Central Pollution Control Board data.
The promotion of cleaner energy sources and stricter enforcement of emission standards for vehicles and industries are essential steps to reduce pollution in the long run. The NCR needs a comprehensive and coordinated approach to address the problem, including better public transportation, cycling infrastructure, green spaces, and policies to reduce the reliance on personal vehicles.
