The ambient air quality in the capital is dismal. Air quality is reported in terms of presence of suspended particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). Delhi with a mean annual PM 2.5 concentration of 122 is the 11th most polluted city in the world, according to World Health Organisation report.

Delhi and the surrounding regions see a spike in air pollution during winters. Pollution in Noida city too has risen to alarming levels. In fact, Central Pollution Control Board’s air quality index (AQI) at 468 in Noida earlier this month was the worst recorded in the state’s history.

Fast Facts

• World Health Organization (WHO) has set safe levels for PM2.5 at 10 mpcm and PM10 at 20 mpcm annual mean.
• PM2.5 refers to fine particles suspended in air having 2.5 micrometers or smaller diameter. These are generally produced as a result of combustion activities of industrial units, power plants, motor vehicles and also forest fires or stubble burning in farms.
• PM 10 comprises of rather coarser dust particles in air which is a result of construction activities involving crushing or grinding and also the dust stirred up by movement of man and vehicles.

It has been observed air pollution is not limited just to the national capital region. In fact, air quality has been deteriorating across all major cities of the country. Many Indian cities including Patna, Gwalior, Lucknow and Raipur feature in WHO list of top 20 most polluted cities in the world. Average PM 2.5 concentration of  India is 60.6 mpcm.

Rising Air Pollution is a Major Risk to Health

Pollution is a big killer in India. India has been ranked No.1 in pollution related deaths. The Lancet Commission report puts 2.5 million deaths in India due to pollution in 2015. Severe pollution is a big health risk, especially, young children and older people are prone to respiratory illnesses. WHO suggests by reducing air pollution countries can reduce the risk of many diseases like stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and both chronic and acute respiratory diseases, including asthma.

Air Purifiers to the Rescue

Rising air pollution is a concern for all classes of society. Everyone is facing issues due to the poor air quality. Also, research says that often your home air quality is a lot worse than the air outside. You can wear a mask while outside but when at home or office, the need for an air purifier becomes all the more important.

 

It is important to understand one aspect regarding air purifier in India. It is not just a luxury, but also a necessity. The levels of toxic impurities have increased to an alarming extent, especially in the northern parts of India. With no guaranteed solution in sight, it is important to keep the indoor air purified and make everyday living a lot more easier.

Your indoor air quality is often unnoticed as people think pollution only occurs in the open areas. A lot of factors contribute to the air pollution in your home like asbestos, formaldehyde, inadequate ventilation, etc. Hence, it is essential to address them in the right time frame before they create health issues in your family. Choosing air purifiers for home is a smart choice as it not only improves air quality, but also keeps your family members healthy!

Points to Consider While Buying an Air Purifier

Before you buy an air purifier for your home or office you should take note of few things. A little research into the type of filter in the purifier, the clean air delivery rate (CADR), air changes per hour (ACH) are the things that will ensure you buy the right product for your home. a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter can filter up to 99.9 per cent airborne particles of upto 0.3 microns in size; activated carbon in combination with a HEPA filter can remove odours, too. The size of your room affects CADR so for a larger room you should consider buying an air purifier with higher CADR. consider the running and maintenance costs as well. Do your research and go for an air purifier for better health of your family.