Hapur AQI Hits Life-Threatening 758: District Turns Into 'Gas Chamber'; Experts Issue Urgent Health Advisory

Despite an increase in airflow in Hapur, pollution levels remain life-threatening. On Monday, the district's Air Quality Index (AQI) reached a staggering 758. Although a slight dip was recorded after the sun emerged in the afternoon, the air quality remained in the 'Red Zone' and continues to stay at a lethal level.

Residents are suffering from breathlessness due to harmful chemicals, dust, smoke and rubber particles suspended in the air. The dense pollution has effectively turned the district into a "gas chamber." The campaign to reduce pollution seems to exist only on paper, while responsible officials remain completely inactive. Consequently, restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) are being openly violated. Despite a ban by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), garbage is being burned at various locations, further worsening the situation.

Air Quality Index

Current Air Pollution Levels

Current Situation

A thick layer of pollution hangs over the area. An abundance of dust and smoke particles has significantly reduced visibility. Furthermore, toxic particles are entering people's bodies with every breath, causing severe health issues. On Monday, the district recorded the highest pollution level of the year, with the AQI touching 750. As a result, people have started complaining of eye irritation, shortness of breath, and skin infections.

Role Of Airflow

The terrifying pollution situation in the district was initially driven by airflow, which brought a thick layer of smog from Haryana, Delhi, and Noida over the district. Due to this, sunlight could not reach the ground until Monday afternoon. However, at night, the airflow slows down slightly, causing the pollution situation to deteriorate further. This affects visibility, necessitating caution while traveling.

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Breathing Outdoors Can Be Fatal

Experts have issued an alert advising people against breathing in the open air. A warning has also been displayed on the PCPB app, stating that breathing outdoors is unsafe in the current conditions. Exposure to this air can lead to inflammation of the lungs and respiratory tract, eye irritation, skin tightness and itching, high blood pressure, dizziness, and nausea. Due to the presence of deadly gases, dust, and smoke in the polluted air, the lungs are unable to absorb sufficient oxygen.

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Officials Negligent Garbage is being burned rampantly across the city, yet responsible municipal officials are not taking the matter seriously. Images of garbage burning have surfaced from more than 67 locations in the district, yet action has not been taken in a single case. GRAP restrictions are being openly flaunted without any repercussions. Construction work is ongoing at various places in the city, and construction materials are being sold openly. Additionally, uncovered garbage trucks are plying the roads, yet no enforcement action is being taken.