Delhi Air Quality Crisis: 30% Surge in Respiratory Patients After Diwali Celebrations Alarms Medical Community

Medical professionals across Delhi-NCR have observed a significant increase in respiratory and pregnancy-related health complications following Diwali celebrations.

The deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR post-Diwali has resulted in hospitals documenting a marked increase in respiratory and pregnancy-related health issues.

Healthcare professionals throughout the region have linked this troubling trend to the combined impact of air and noise pollution generated by extensive firecracker use, especially during nighttime hours.

Pulmonologists and gynecologists report that both outpatient departments and emergency services experienced a considerable uptick in cases between October 20-23, coinciding with pollution measurements far exceeding safe thresholds.

During this period, Delhi's Air Quality Index remained categorized as "very poor."

The abrupt exposure to smoke, harmful gases, and fine particulate matter has particularly affected vulnerable populations including the elderly, children, expectant mothers, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiac conditions.

"Post-Diwali smog presents a unique danger due to its sudden, concentrated density of pollutants. Within just 48 hours after Diwali, we witnessed approximately a 30 percent increase in patients experiencing breathing difficulties, asthma exacerbations, and allergic bronchitis," noted Dr. Pulkit Agarwal, Consultant Pulmonologist at SilverStreak Superspeciality Hospital.

Dr. Mohit Bhardwaj, Consultant Pulmonologist at Shalby International Hospital in Gurugram, shared similar concerns: "Winter's stagnant air combined with firecracker smoke creates a low-lying trap for pollutants. Those with pre-existing health conditions should minimize outdoor activity during high pollution periods, utilize N95 masks, and maintain their prescribed medication regimens without interruption."

Gynecologists are expressing equivalent alarm regarding the less visible but significant effects of pollution on maternal and fetal health outcomes.

"Fine particulate matter can penetrate the placental barrier, potentially disrupting fetal development and neurological growth. Following Diwali celebrations, we've noted an increase in pregnant patients reporting respiratory difficulty, lightheadedness, and elevated blood pressure," explained Dr. Astha Dayal, Director of Obstetrics and Gynecology at CK Birla Hospital Gurgaon.

In the aftermath of Diwali, PM2.5 measurements reached 675, marking a four-year high.

Dr. Yashica Gudesar, Director and Unit Head of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Max Super Speciality Hospital in Dwarka, emphasized that sustained exposure to contaminated air during pregnancy may elevate risks of premature delivery and low birth weight.

"We recommend pregnant women remain indoors during poor air quality periods, employ air purifiers at home, and increase fluid consumption to help eliminate toxins."

"Working women should also ensure air purifiers are utilized at home, in workplace environments, and even within vehicles to reduce continuous exposure to harmful airborne contaminants," she advised.

Health specialists have collectively called upon both citizens and governing bodies to embrace more responsible and sustainable festival celebration practices.

Their recommendations include transitioning to eco-friendly fireworks, organizing community-based firework displays rather than individual ones, and promoting quieter, environmentally conscious celebrations.

As air quality reaches "severe" classifications across numerous areas of Delhi-NCR, healthcare professionals emphasize that preventative measures, public education, and responsible celebration represent the only viable approach to disrupting this cyclical post-Diwali health crisis.