Mumbai’s Air Quality Declines, Triggering Respiratory Crisis

Mumbai’s deteriorating air quality is wreaking havoc on public health, with a significant surge in respiratory ailments reported across the city. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) hit 174 (moderate) on Sunday, with 10 out of 30 monitoring stations later categorising the air as ‘poor.’ Notable areas like Malad West, Mazgaon, and Shivaji Nagar reported AQI levels above 230, signalling a severe impact on public health.

The AQI, a measure of air pollution on a scale from 0 to 500, categorises readings between 200 and 300 as ‘poor,’ posing risks to vulnerable groups. Doctors attribute the worsening air quality to factors such as pollution from construction sites, vehicular emissions, and winter’s temperature inversion effect, which traps pollutants near the surface. “Air pollution has exacerbated seasonal respiratory infections. Children and elderly patients, especially those with asthma, are experiencing severe flare-ups,” said Dr Indu Khosla, a paediatric pulmonologist. Many doctors report that patients skipping regular asthma medication face relapses, while even healthy individuals show asthma-like symptoms.

The impact extends across demographics. Residents like Sanskruti Shinde from Wadala report persistent coughs requiring steroids, while Swapnil Bharadwaj’s family in Andheri struggles with recurring respiratory illnesses. “Masks are now essential for us, especially near high-traffic zones,” Bharadwaj shared. Doctors like Dr Hemant Thacker and Dr Lancelot Pinto emphasise preventive measures, urging the public to avoid outdoor exercise during peak pollution hours and to wear high-quality masks. “Many prolonged coughs are caused by irritants, not viral infections,” said Dr Pinto, highlighting the need for vigilance. Experts recommend simple remedies such as steam inhalation, warm fluids, and gargling with salt water to alleviate symptoms. Maintaining hygiene, avoiding polluted areas, and getting flu vaccinations are also vital steps to combat respiratory issues. As Mumbai faces this escalating health challenge, immediate measures to curb pollution and protect vulnerable groups are critical.