Take my breath away

India — October 2022

Intoxicating India. Had the pleasure of spending three whirlwind weeks exploring Northern Indias colorful cities. A amalgamation of motorbikes, spices, people, and cows in constant flux. Hot and hectic times in one of the most dynamic location on Earth.

Excerpt from, “The White Tiger: A Novel” by Aravind Adiga:

“Rush hour in Delhi. Cars, scooters, motorbikes, autorickshaws, black taxis, jostling for space on the road. The pollution is so bad that the men on the motorbikes and scooters have a handkerchief wrapped around their faces—each time you stop at a red light, you see a row of men with black glasses and masks on their faces, as if the whole city were out on a bank heist that morning. There was a good reason for the face masks; they say the air is so bad in Delhi that it takes ten years out of a man’s life.“

While reading this crazy tale, I was able to relate to the pollution experience. I remember being surrounded by conditions like this in Kathmandu 5 years ago and having to wear a mask out in public… flash forward to a few years later and it became all too familiar again. Without a mask, the constant exhaust and dirt in the air leaves me blowing black chunks out of my nose at night. Sounds gross? Yes, because it is. Can’t imagine black mucus contributing to a healthy life.

Air pollution in India is a serious environmental issue. Of the 30 most polluted cities in the world, 21 were in India in 2019. India consistently has 4x the national ambient air quality standard as set by the World Health Organization, meaning levels are in the “unsafe” category. Air quality even tends to worsen this time of year during Diwali, when fire crackers are set off in the cities for 2-3 days. Outdoor air pollution is the fifth leading cause of death in India. 2 million- the number premature deaths cause by air pollution and the number of Indian children with lung abnormalities. Additionally, a 2013 study on non-smokers has found that Indians have 30% weaker lung function than Europeans.

The Indian government has in recent years begun making strides towards lowering emissions. Things such as electrifying public transport are a given around the world. But interestingly enough, in 2017 the government introduced the Odd-Even rationing method. This meant that cars with license plates ending in Odd digits could only be driven on certain days of the week, while the Even digit cars could be driven on the remaining days of the week. If only White Tiger had been written in this era!

What can you do personally when confronted with poor air quality?

1. Reduce outdoor activity

2. Stay away from city pollution hotspots, such as main roads

3. Avoid being outdoors during rush hour

4. Use less energy in your home and don’t idle in your car— therefore you won’t contribute to the problem

5. Use air purifiers or wear a mask outdoors

Whether you’re traveling to India or staying local, it’s always important to check up on the local air quality levels.