Heatwaves and Air Quality: A Dual Crisis for Public Health
The impact of heatwaves in India extends beyond the physical toll of high temperatures. There is growing concern about the link between heatwaves and deteriorating air quality. High temperatures can increase the concentration of air pollutants like particulate matter (PM), ozone, and carbon monoxide, leading to poor air quality and heightening the risks of respiratory illnesses.
Health Implications of Poor Air Quality
During heatwaves, the air becomes increasingly polluted as heat accelerates chemical reactions in the atmosphere, which, in turn, results in smog and higher levels of harmful particulate matter. For individuals with pre-existing conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory disorders, the combination of extreme heat and poor air quality can be life-threatening.
Children and elderly people are especially at risk, as their immune systems and respiratory functions are more susceptible to the effects of high pollution and extreme heat. Prolonged exposure to high levels of air pollution can lead to chronic health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases and lung cancer.
Addressing the Air Quality Crisis
To address the combined impact of heatwaves and deteriorating air quality, it is essential to implement both short- and long-term measures. In the short term, improving the air quality through better monitoring and regulation of industrial emissions, vehicle emissions, and waste-burning practices can help reduce the pollutant load during heat events.
In the long term, urban planning must focus on creating greener spaces that can absorb pollutants and mitigate the urban heat island effect. Additionally, policies promoting cleaner sources of energy, such as solar and wind power, can reduce the carbon footprint and lower pollution levels.
