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The report highlights that India’s annual PM2.5 standard is set at 40 micrograms per cubic meter, but more than 40% of the population is exposed to air exceeding this limit. (Photo: PTI+AP)
Delhi, India's capital and most populous city, is also considered the world's most polluted city, the report said
Persistent air pollution in Delhi is shortening the life expectancy of residents, according to the latest Air Quality Life Index 2024 report, which highlights the city's status as one of the most polluted areas in the northern plains.
According to a report by the Energy Policy Institute (EPIC) at the University of Chicago, 180,000 people living in the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, one of the most polluted areas in the northern plains, will lose their quality of life. Compared to WHO guidelines, the average life expectancy is 11.9 years.
Even by India's own national standards, if current pollution levels continue, residents' life expectancy will be reduced by 8.5 years.
Delhi, India's capital and most populous city, is also considered the most polluted city in the world, the report said.
However, the report also stated that if India meets the national PM2.5 standards, the life expectancy of Delhi residents will increase by 8.5 years, and if the World Health Organization standards are met, the life expectancy of Delhi residents will increase by nearly 12 years.
PM2.5 are fine suspended particles that can penetrate deep into the respiratory system and cause respiratory problems, posing a significant health risk and a major contributor to pollution levels.
The report highlights that India’s annual PM2.5 standard is set at 40 micrograms per cubic meter, but more than 40% of the population is exposed to air exceeding this limit.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department said the maximum temperature in Delhi on Wednesday was 34 degrees Celsius, which is normal for this time of the year.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the humidity reached 85 per cent at 5:30 pm.
The Met Office issued a “yellow” alert for Delhi on Thursday.
According to the IMD's colour-coded warnings, a “yellow” alert indicates severe weather and conditions that may worsen, disrupting daily life.
The IMD predicts that Thursday will be cloudy with moderate rain and the maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to hover around 34 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius respectively.
The city's main weather station Safdarjung recorded 9.8 mm of rainfall between 8.30 am on August 27 and 8.30 am on August 28, while Lodhi Road recorded 9.3 mm and Ridge recorded 14.5 mm, the IMD said. Ayanagar recorded 7.4 mm and Palam recorded 7.7 mm.
(This report has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from associated news agency – PTI)
