Union environment minister Prakash Javadekar said that toxic air in Delhi is killing at least 80 people every day. According to the study, 45% of premature deaths linked to air pollution in Delhi could be avoided if the city met the national ambient air quality standard for PM 2.5 that is 60 micrograms per cubic metre. In fact, 85% of these deaths could be avoided if the city’s air can be cleaned up to the safe standards set by the World Health Organization, which is 10 micrograms per cubic metre. Across India, as many as 4 lakh premature deaths could be prevented every year if the WHO standards are met.
What is a Particulate Matter?
- “Particulate matter,” also known as particle pollution or PM, is a complex mixture of extremely small particles and liquid droplets.
- Particle pollution is made up of a number of components, including acids (such as nitrates and sulfates), organic chemicals, metals, and soil or dust particles.
- The size of particles is directly linked to their potential for causing health problems.
- Particles that are 10 micrometers in diameter or smaller can pass through the throat and nose and enter the lungs ans also affect the heart and lungs.
- Inhalable coarse particles – are larger than 2.5 micrometers and smaller than 10 micrometers in diameter.
- Fine particles – are 2.5 micrometers in diameter and smaller.
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