NEW DELHI: A recent Greenpeace India report, ‘Beyond North India: NO₂ Pollution and Health Risks in Seven Major Indian Cities’, has highlighted alarming nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) levels in urban atmospheres, revealing its severe health implications.
As per the report, the severe health toll of NO₂ pollution, noted an estimated 5,400 deaths in Mumbai from prolonged exposure, the highest among Indian cities. In addition, 3,970 pediatric asthma cases in 2015 were attributed to NO₂ in the city.
Dr. Avi Kumar, Senior Pulmonologist at Fortis Escorts Hospital in New Delhi speaking on the harmful effects of NO2 told The New Indian, “Nitrogen dioxide, a harmful gas closely linked to vehicular emissions and gas-based power plants, poses significant health risks, particularly to children.”
In 2023, NO₂ concentrations in Mumbai exceeded the World Health Organization’s (WHO) health guidelines at 22 of 24 monitoring stations. Malad West recorded the highest annual levels, followed by Bandra Kurla, a roadside station near a bus depot.
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Areas like Mazgaon and Sion reported daily averages surpassing safe limits for over 70% of the year, with Mazgaon recording 267 days above the threshold.
The report ascribed the toxic gas to congested road traffic and fossil fuel combustion, with Mumbai leading in pollution-related health risks.
Dr. Kumar adds, “NO₂ forms particulate matter that inflames airways, leading to respiratory issues like coughing, wheezing, and breathlessness, Chronic exposure reduces lung function, triggers asthma attacks, and increases the likelihood of emergency visits and hospital admissions.”
Experts like Dr. Kumar warn that without immediate intervention, the invisible yet deadly threat of NO₂ could further strain healthcare systems and increase mortality rates, especially among vulnerable populations like children.
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Dr Kumar further emphasised the systemic impacts of NO₂, stating, “Beyond the lungs, it affects the heart, increasing risks of hypertension, heart failure, and ischemic heart disease.
Long-term exposure can also harm the kidneys, brain and may predispose individuals to autoimmune disorders and cancers.”
These findings highlight the urgent need for action to combat NO₂ pollution. Reducing vehicular emissions, transitioning to cleaner fuels, and enforcing stringent air quality measures are critical to safeguarding public health.