With poor air quality, six in 10 residents in Delhi, Mumbai willing to relocate: Survey
The findings also highlighted the profound impact of declining air quality on the well-being of individuals, especially during the winter season
The worsening air quality has led the residents of Delhi and Mumbai and their suburbs to weigh the option of relocating to other places.
A new survey has revealed that a staggering 60 percent of the people living in New Delhi and Mumbai are considering relocation due to the worsening air pollution in both cities. The survey of 4,000 people based out of Delhi, Mumbai and nearby areas was conducted by healthcare provider Pristyn Care.
It also recorded that nine out of 10 respondents experienced the most common symptoms of the deteriorating Air Quality Index (AQI) such as persistent coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, sore throat, and watery or itchy eyes. “Six in 10 residents in Delhi and Mumbai might consider relocating due to poor air quality and pollution,” the survey said.
The findings also highlighted the profound impact of declining air quality on the well-being of individuals, especially during the winter season.
According to the report, 40 percent of respondents have observed a deterioration in pre-existing respiratory issues such as asthma or bronchitis among their loved ones during the winter season. “Four in 10 residents in Delhi and Mumbai seek medical attention for health issues related to air pollution every year or at least every few years,” it added.
When questioned about adjusting their lifestyle to deal with air pollution, 35 percent mentioned that they stopped outdoor activities such as exercising and running, while 30 percent began wearing masks outdoors.
On air purifiers, the report said that a mere 27 percent of respondents in Delhi and Mumbai admitted to using them, while surprisingly 43 percent still have the “misconception that their use reduces immunity”.
(With agency inputs)