‘Very Poor’ Air Quality Raises Alarms in Ghaziabad, Residents Face Breathing Challenges

People in Ghaziabad district experienced respiratory issues and eye irritation as the air quality deteriorated to the ‘very poor’ category on Wednesday. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported multiple areas with poor air quality, reaching 348 in Sanjay Nagar, 373 in Vasundhara, 376 in Indirapuram, and 369 in Loni.

Concerned residents spoke of burning eyes, difficulty in breathing, and overall discomfort. A morning walker expressed, “We are facing problems due to the poor air quality. We can sense burning and irritation in the eyes due to the rising pollution levels. We are also facing difficulty in breathing. Senior citizens are affected the most.”

Simultaneously, Delhi witnessed a thick layer of smog, with air quality dropping to the ‘severe’ category in various parts. Citizens called for measures like the odd-even rule for vehicles. Suresh Kumar, a morning walker, stated, “The situation is worse. Pollution is occurring mostly because of vehicles. Odd-even should be implemented always, as it makes a difference.”

The Delhi Fire Services (DFS) resumed using water sprinklers in 13 hot spots to combat pollution. Noida, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad continued to grapple with ‘very poor’ air quality even after Diwali.

Health officials warned of the severe impact of such pollution on respiratory health, emphasizing the need for preventive measures. The Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) reinstated dust mitigation measures, aiming to address the escalating pollution levels.