Delhi air pollution: Outdoor workers report breathing difficulties, cough and burning eyes as AQI worsens

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi reached 400 at certain locations, prompting outdoor workers to report breathing difficulties, persistent coughs, headaches, and burning eyes. These workers, who include traffic police personnel, domestic workers, roadside vendors, mechanics, and gig workers, often lack adequate protection against pollution.

Yogendra Kumar, a traffic inspector, explained that health risks persist throughout the year but intensify when air quality deteriorates due to road dust and vehicular emissions. Reena Chaudhary, a domestic worker, began experiencing symptoms the night before Deepavali, with her condition worsening on the festival day, including headaches, burning eyes, and a persistent cough.

She resorted to covering her face with her dupatta and now takes her daughter along in case she falls ill. Ravi, a gig worker, works through the night and often stops near green areas to breathe due to the dense, heavy air. Mukesh Yadav, an e-rickshaw driver, ties a towel around his face to protect himself from road dust and smoke.

An analysis by the Centre for Science and Environment revealed that Delhi's average PM2.5 concentration in the week leading up to Deepavali was 236 micrograms per cubic metre, the highest in three years, 97% higher than in 2025 and 32% above the 179 micrograms per cubic metre recorded in 2024. This severe pollution, while an annual issue, suggests a higher baseline pollution level before the festival, according to Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director at the CSE.