A battle for breath

India's Air Quality Index (AQI) has become a daily horror show, flashing dangerous numbers that warn of invisible threats in every breath we take. With pollutants rising and clean air slipping away, are we truly aware of the disaster unfolding before us?

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Understanding AQI Levels

The AQI measures air pollution severity:

0-50 (Good) - Clean air, no risk.

51-100 (Moderate) - Generally safe, but sensitive groups may feel mild discomfort.

101-150 (Poor) - Unhealthy for sensitive individuals.

151-200 (Unhealthy) - Risk of breathing issues increases for everyone.

201-300 (Severe) - Dangerous for all; outdoor activity should be avoided.

301+ (Hazardous/Fatal) - Toxic air; long-term exposure leads to severe health effects.

The Human and animal toll

Consequences are devastating

Children struggle to breathe before they learn to run. Elders gasp for air. Pregnant women worry about their unborn babies.

Animals suffer, too-migratory birds change routes, pets develop respiratory diseases, and wildlife retreats from polluted landscapes.

Urgent action is needed

Despite alarming statistics, we delay solutions, ignore warnings, and excuse inaction. Industries pollute without accountability, construction dust rises unchecked and vehicle emissions choke the roads. While policies exist, enforcement is weak.

There's no time for empty promises-action must replace words.

Solutions exist

Stricter emission laws and proper enforcement.

Expanding green spaces to combat pollution.

Better public transport to reduce vehicle dependency.

Shifting to renewable energy sources instead of toxic fuel.

A fight we cannot ignore

This isn't a future crisis-it's already here. If we do not act, the very air we depend on will turn against us. It's time to move beyond conversations and demand change.

India's air is dying. The question is, will we revive it or suffocate in silence?

Shree Chowdhury, Shishu Niketan Public School, Sec-66, Mohali