Air Pollution Becomes Delhi’s Biggest Killer, Linked to One in Seven Deaths

Air pollution has emerged as the leading cause of death in the national capital, accounting for nearly 15 per cent of all fatalities in 2023, according to data from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME). The study revealed that one in every seven deaths in Delhi last year was caused by toxic air, underscoring a worsening public health crisis.

The number of deaths linked to air pollution rose to 17,188 in 2023, compared to 15,786 in 2018. This figure has now surpassed fatalities caused by high blood pressure (14,874 deaths), high blood sugar (10,653), and high cholesterol (7,267). Experts warn that the city’s hazardous air is now deadlier than many chronic diseases traditionally associated with premature mortality.

Environmental and health experts said the findings highlight the urgent need for coordinated action across multiple sectors. “Air pollution is no longer an environmental problem alone—it’s a full-blown public health emergency,” said Manoj Kumar of the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air.

Delhi continues to rank among the most polluted cities globally, with fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels several times higher than WHO’s safe limits. The city’s air quality worsens sharply during winter, driven by vehicle emissions, construction dust, industrial output, and stubble burning in neighbouring states.

Doctors warn that prolonged exposure to polluted air increases the risk of respiratory illnesses, strokes, heart disease, and even neurological disorders. Despite a range of government measures, including vehicle restrictions and bans on construction and fireworks, experts argue that Delhi’s pollution problem requires long-term structural reforms in transport, energy, and waste management.

The alarming data reiterates that air pollution is not just an environmental issue but a life-threatening health hazard that demands urgent, science-based solutions.