Diwali Health Alert: Delhi-NCR Air Pollution To Worsen After Oct 21 — Which Mask Should You Buy?

Delhi-NCR pollution is set to worsen after October 21 as Diwali approaches. Learn why air quality drops, when it will improve, and which mask N95 or N99 offers real protection this festive season.

As Diwali begins to come around the corner, the concern of air pollution levels increasing in Delhi NCR begins. According to early forecasts, air quality in the regions of Delhi is expected to get worse after October 21, and suddenly, the festive season will turn into a toxic haze. And at this time, health experts step out and warn about the pollution spike, which may happen earlier than usual because of firecracker smoke, stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, and stagnant post-monsoon weather. So before you step out to celebrate, it’s time to prepare yourself to get rid of this air pollution.

Why Delhi’s Air Quality Index Drop After Diwali?

Every year just after Diwali, Delhi face a huge decline in air quality. But what is the main reason behind it? It’s the deadly firecracker emission, vehicle, smoke and agricultural residue burning. With temperature, dropping and wind speed slowing down, pollutants remain trapped close to the ground, forming a dense smoke blanket across NCR.

The graded response action plan, GRAP, has already been activated, putting ban on construction activities, restricting diesel generators, and keeping a check on vehicle emission. Even after taking all the precautions, experts believes that AQI may reach the severe category in several areas. Doctors are advising citizens to stay at home during severe conditions and wear a mask whenever they go out using a good quality mask that will filter out the fine particles and will protect you from major damage.

Which Mask Should You Buy After Diwali?

Each and every mask available in the market is not good for protecting you from Delhi dangerous PM2.5levels. Here is a guide that you need to know before buying any mask:

N 95 mask: It is one of the most practical and widely available option. This mask helps to filter out 95% of airborne particles, including PM 2 .5 and PM10 which are the main pollutants behind harming your lungs. These mask are slightly expensive, then surgical mask part offers are far better protection.
N 99 mask: If you are the person who is facing the problem of asthma, allergies, or any kind of respiratory condition, then using N 99 mask could be the best option for you. As it has 99% federation efficiency, which blocks even finest particles then N95 from entering your body.
Cloth masks: Cloth mask or fashion mask are suitable for Delhi pollution level. They may look good, but do not block harmful particular matter. But if you want to wear them, you can wear it over n95 mask as they will provide you extra layer protection from pollution.

Protecting Your Home From Air Pollution

Even indoors, Delhi air quality takes a hit during Diwali week. Keep your home clean and breathable following a few tips:

Keep a air purifier bag with a HEPA filter at your home.
During early morning or late night, when smoke is at its peak, close your windows and doors.
Grow plants, which will purify air such as aloe vera, peace, lily, or snake plant.
Stay hydrated and include vitamin C, rich food like orange, Amla and kiwi to boost your lung strength.

Diwali is a festival of light and positivity, not smoke and coughing. As air quality starts to deplete, taking precautions on the right time became very important as an act of self-care and responsibility. So this festival season make sure you bring happiness and brightness with diyas, love, and clean air habits not from smoke.