With air quality index (AQI) crossing the 'severe' category mark in some parts of the city, residents of Noida are complaining of several health issues. Cases of watery eyes, sore throat, cough and breathlessness have reportedly increased sharply within a couple of days'
A doctor at a well known hospital in the city confirmed spike in cases of asthma and watery eyes.
Mohan Singh, a resident, lamented that he had to stop visiting Noida Stadium for a walk. He said, “Though a regular to the stadium, I have stopped visiting it for the time being to avoid health issues. I will resume my morning walk only when the air quality improves.”
The AQI reading between 51 to 100 is considered 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor'. While 300-400 is considered 'very poor', levels between 401-500 fall under the 'hazardous' category.
According to the Met Department, the AQI recorded on Thursday morning was 489 in Noida, while it was 452 in the evening, a decline of 37 points. In Greater Noida, the AQI was 473.
Apartment Owner Association of Hyde Park, a high rise in Sector 78, Noida, brought as many as 1,000 potted plants to add to the beauty and green cover of their society. Ashwani Tripathi, president of the association, said that the decision to expand the green cover was taken in view of the rising air pollution levels. Since plants give fresh air to breathe, they help in controlling pollution levels
She further said, "Residents of the society will have fresh air after these plants grow. The plants are kept in different locations to give a beautiful look to the society.”
Stubble burning is one of the major contributing factors for the rise of pollutants in the National Capital and its adjoining areas forcing the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to take measures for bringing the situation under control. It extended the closure of coal-based industries till November 2 and ban on night construction by four hours. Under the new mandate, no construction activity will be carried out between 6pm and 10am.
The local administration has also taken measures to control the pollution. Though, it has stopped construction work of public facilities in the city and covered the construction materials on the site, it failed to stop the construction of building by private builders, who are carrying out the construction in violation of the environmental rules.
