Reduce Air Pollution

This is shocking news to all Indian citizens! According to a new global report by the US-based Health Effects Institute (HEI), air pollution in India has shortened life expectancy by 1.51 years. It says that 93% of India's population lives in areas with PM2.5 levels worse than the World Health Organization's (WHO's) new air quality standards. India is currently ranked fifth in the world concerning air pollution, with 95% of its population receiving such exposure. According to a new report by the 'Center for Science and Environment', deaths attributable to PM 2.5 pollution in India have increased by 2.5 times over the last two decades. As per estimates, nearly 1.67 million people die annually due to indoor and outdoor air pollution. Air pollution along with exposure to ozone also influences longevity. As per the estimates, human life expectancy is shortened by approximately 1.8 years because of the combined effect of ambient ozone pollution, with fine particulate matter in the ambient air. Prolonged exposure to hazardous air causes varied health problems leading to shortened life expectancy. Air pollution is a long-standing problem. There is a need to take urgent steps to minimize the air pollution levels by cutting down the emissions of air pollutants urgently.

Dr Krishna Kumar Vepakomma,

Hyderabad -500045.