Ozone pollution causes serious health issues in Delhi-NCR

NEW DELHI: The analysis report of Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), Delhi, claimed that ozone pollution has increased in Delhi-NCR in comparison to the last year. Ozone at ground level is a harmful air pollutant. Ozone is formed when pollutants emitted by cars, power plants, industrial boilers, refineries, chemical plants, and other sources react chemically in the presence of sunlight.

An official at the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting said, “When temperature increases, the rate of production of ozone also increases. It can cause fatigue, breathlessness, and asthma.”

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) releases the ozone levels tracked report for Delhi-NCR from April 1 – June15, 2019, to find the actual condition. Report said, “The Delhi-NCR region had more days with average ozone levels more than the national air quality limits than the last summer.” Surface ozone is not a primary pollutant, but it is produced due to chemical reactions of nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide in the presence of sunlight.

Anumita Roy Chowdhury, Executive Director (research and advocacy) of CSE led the analysis project, said, “As the air quality index is also beginning to show ozone as a dominant pollutant, it will require strong action to cut down gaseous emissions from combustion sources – vehicles and industry.”

Ozone can be harmful for our health. People at higher risk are people with asthma, children, older adults, and people who are active outdoors, especially outdoor workers. In addition, people with certain genetic characteristics, and people with reduced intake of certain nutrients, such as vitamins C and E, are at greater risk from ozone exposure. Breathing ozone can trigger a variety of health problems including chest pain, coughing, throat irritation, and airway inflammation. It also can reduce lung function and harm lung tissue. Ozone can worsen bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma, leading to increased medical care.