Pollution Levels Soar in Delhi NCR; AIIMS Study Reveals Impact on Health

New Delhi, Nov 28 (Thursday) : Air pollution in Delhi NCR continues to fluctuate, with levels spiking to hazardous levels once again today. The Central Pollution Control Board reported that many areas in Delhi are experiencing air quality in the "very low" category. This comes amid heavy fog blanketing the city, particularly around landmarks like India Gate. Meanwhile, toxic foam has been observed floating in the Yamuna River near Kalindi Kunj.

Residents are reporting severe health effects, including eye irritation, sore throats, and breathing difficulties, as a result of the ongoing pollution. Experts are raising concerns about the fog, which is preventing sunlight from reaching the ground. A recent study by AIIMS suggests that the lack of sunlight exposure due to persistent smog is weakening bones, as the body is unable to produce adequate levels of Vitamin D3.

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Ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight play a crucial role in the body's production of Vitamin D3, with up to 90% of its production depending on UV exposure. However, heavy fog and haze are blocking sunlight from reaching the Earth, causing a significant drop in Vitamin D levels.

The AIIMS study, conducted on residents in Delhi and Gurugram, revealed that prolonged exposure to smog is contributing to widespread Vitamin D deficiency in the population. The situation is worsened by the city's persistent pollution and haze problems.

The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for today, warning of the possibility of further heavy fog, which is expected to continue exacerbating the pollution levels and impacting public health.

Also read: Delhi's air quality deteriorates, AQI in 'very poor' category