Delhi Gets 72-Hour Pollution Forecast System - Know The Benefits!

An emergency action plan has been devised for air pollution in Delhi. The Central Pollution Control Board has launched the Air Quality Prediction System that would forecast the air condition of the next 72 hours. This system would forecast for various areas and localities of Delhi and neighbouring regions like Ghaziabad, Gurgaon, Rohtak, etc. 

This pollution forecast system is based on the real-time observation of air quality using satellites. Satellites measure details of Aerosols like SO2, NO2, Dust, and particulate matter (PM10 and PM 2.5).

People can access air quality early warnings through the media corner of the CPCB website. It includes large-scale alerts on air pollution that may occur in Delhi.

How Is 72-Hour Pollution Forecast System Beneficial?

This new 72-hour Pollution Forecast System not only helps the general population prepare for bad-air days but also help enforcement agencies to gear up to take defensive action and warnings. For example, enforcement agencies may decide in advance to implement the Odd-Even system for cars, or put a halt on construction activity, or other remedial measures.

Diseases Caused by Pollution

Most respiratory diseases are caused by air pollution, some of which are:

Asthma: Asthma is one of the most common diseases that is caused by external and internal air pollution. In this chronic disease, inflammation and blockage occur in the air passage of lungs. Asthma is caused by the Sulphur, Oxides, Nitrates, Particulate Matter, etc.

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): Another chronic disease which is caused by air pollution is COPD. In this disease, the Alveoli, Air Sacs, and Air Passage become inflamed. People who work in mines, docks, or quarries are most likely affected by this disease.

Lung Cancer: Presence of various carcinogens in the air may cause serious issues like pulmonary or lung cancer. In this disease, an uncontrolled growth of cells reduces the amount of oxygen in the lungs. It also affects the functionality of the Lungs.

Cardiovascular Diseases: Breathing polluted air for a long time may lead to heart problems. Pollutants such as Nitrogen oxide, Carbon Monoxide, and Ozone mixed with bloodstream may damage the functionality of Heart and lead to cardiovascular disease.

Threat to Pregnant Women and Newborns: Air pollution adversely affects the health of pregnant women. Breathing polluted air by pregnant women weakens the immune system of unborn child.

How Can We Work Individually Towards Reducing the Pollution

• Awareness about air pollution
• Plant as many trees as possible
• Use less electricity (conserve energy)
• Curb unbridled industrialization
• Reduce the use of personal vehicles
• Reduce polyethene bags
• Reduce indoor pollution
• Do not burn firecrackers.
• Use less machines for cleaning.
• Do not burn the garbage and throw garbage at its fixed place.

Conclusion

Delhi is one of the most polluted cities in the world and both short-term, as well as long-term measures, are required to improve the situation. 72-Hour Pollution Forecast System is the step in the right direction. It will help residents know in advance about upcoming pollution days and also increase general awareness of this issue.