Government Calls for Action as Air Pollution Worsens During Diwali Season

As air pollution levels rise in multiple cities, the central government is urging all states to increase efforts to address the situation, especially as air quality is expected to worsen with upcoming Diwali festivities. The government’s instructions cover multiple areas to mitigate health risks posed by pollution.

Healthcare Preparedness

The Union Health Ministry has called on states to ensure healthcare facilities and staff are prepared to manage the likely surge in air pollution-related health issues. This includes expanding the healthcare workforce’s capacity to respond to respiratory and other pollution-triggered health conditions.

Public Advisory on Pollution

To help reduce pollution exposure, the Health Ministry has urged the public to use public transport, limit time in high-pollution areas, and avoid heavily congested spaces. Additionally, the ministry advises against burning stubble and waste, which significantly contribute to air pollution.

Letter to States: Emphasizing Preventive Measures

In a recent letter, Director General of Health Services (DGHS) Dr. Atul Goel suggested states discourage the burning of stubble and waste. The letter also calls for promoting public transportation, limiting the use of diesel generators, and curbing smoking. Dr. Goel recommended that individuals check air quality via government apps before going outdoors and consider switching to cleaner fuels for home activities like cooking and heating.

Health Risks Due to Air Pollution

Air pollution is now recognized as a major public health challenge, with recent Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in some regions hitting “moderate” to “poor” status. According to health officials, prolonged exposure to polluted air can aggravate chronic diseases, affecting the respiratory, cardiovascular, and cerebrovascular systems. These health issues increase risks of premature mortality, particularly among vulnerable groups.

Focus on Vulnerable Populations

Dr. Goel’s letter highlighted that certain groups face greater risks from air pollution, including children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with pre-existing health conditions. Professionals with high exposure, such as traffic police and municipal workers, are also particularly affected.

State-Level Action Plan

The DGHS advised state health departments and healthcare providers to bolster their efforts. Key actions include:

• Launching public awareness campaigns in regional languages.
• Building healthcare workforce readiness.
• Strengthening sentinel surveillance for pollution-related diseases under the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health.

As Diwali approaches, the government’s focus on preventive measures and heightened awareness aims to reduce the adverse health effects of air pollution on the public.

Summary

The central government is urging all states to prepare for a rise in air pollution, which is expected to worsen during Diwali. They’ve asked states to ensure hospitals and healthcare workers are ready to manage health issues caused by pollution. People are advised to use public transport, avoid crowded areas, and check air quality through government apps before going outside.

Also read: Delhi's Air Quality: Improvement but Still Poor

The government also wants states to discourage stubble and waste burning and reduce firecracker use. Pollution has become a serious health issue, especially affecting children, elderly people, pregnant women, and those with health conditions. States have been instructed to launch awareness campaigns and strengthen healthcare systems to tackle pollution-related diseases effectively.