In brief
Increasing air pollution in Delhi has pushed some residents, like Saurabh Bhasin and Rekha Mathur, to leave the city in search of cleaner air, despite the socio-economic barriers faced by many others.
Saurabh Bhasin used to cherish the seasons in Delhi, but as air pollution escalated, a new fear took hold when his daughter was diagnosed with asthma. This prompted his family to leave the city for Goa, seeking a healthier environment. In November 2022, after years of worrying about deteriorating air quality, Mr. Bhasin made this decision, knowing that not everyone has the privilege to escape such conditions. Since October, when pollution levels spike due to factors like construction, vehicle emissions, and firecracker usage during festivals, the city has suffered from hazardous air quality. Despite a petition filed by Mr. Bhasin in 2015 aiming to reduce pollution, significant improvements remain elusive. His family's move is a testament to the increasingly dangerous atmosphere many families are forced to endure.Reports indicate that Delhi's air quality is hazardous to health, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. As winter approaches, residents face conflicting emotions—a longing for home blended with the fear of health implications from the smog.Rekha Mathur, who temporarily relocates to Dehradun during winter, shares her concern for her child's health. Living apart from her husband due to work obligations amplifies the challenges, highlighting the sacrifices families must make in the face of dire air quality. The government has attempted to address the crisis with various measures, yet residents remain frustrated at the lack of effective change and the cyclical nature of ineffective discussions surrounding air pollution in Delhi. Many have been forced to adapt, with some choosing to move away entirely, like journalist Om Thanvi. His decision to relocate underscores the growing trend among those who can afford to seek cleaner air.However, for those like Sarita Devi, a garment worker who cannot leave Delhi, the smog is an unfortunate constant. Her words emphasize the stark reality that millions still face—an inability to leave the polluted capital while desperately seeking a way to sustain their livelihoods.Ultimately, families like the Bhasins have made the tough choice to prioritize health over familiarity, reflecting a growing concern for the long-term implications of living in a city grappling with escalating air quality issues.
