The Union Government informed Parliament on Thursday that there is currently no conclusive data establishing a direct, exclusive correlation between high Air Quality Index (AQI) levels and the development of lung diseases. In a written response to the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister of State for Environment Kirti Vardhan Singh clarified that while air pollution is a recognized triggering factor for respiratory ailments and associated illnesses, medical evidence does not yet support a singular causal link that would isolate AQI as the sole driver of chronic conditions.
The government’s stance was issued in response to questions raised by BJP MP Laxmikant Bajpayee, who expressed concern over reports that prolonged exposure to hazardous air in Delhi-NCR is causing irreversible lung fibrosis and a drastic reduction in lung elasticity. Bajpayee questioned whether the lung capacity of residents in polluted regions has dropped by nearly 50% compared to those living in cities with cleaner air. While the Minister acknowledged that toxic air exacerbates conditions like COPD and emphysema, he maintained that the multifactorial nature of these diseases makes definitive, singular data difficult to compile.
To address the health risks posed by poor air quality, the Minister highlighted that the government has developed dedicated training modules for medical officers, nurses, and frontline ASHA workers. These programs are designed to help healthcare providers better identify and manage pollution-related symptoms in vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and occupationally exposed workers like the traffic police.
Furthermore, the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH) has created customized educational materials in multiple languages to increase public awareness regarding the long-term risks of fine particulate matter.
In addition to medical training, the government pointed toward broader environmental initiatives as part of the solution. The Minister cited the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, which provides clean cooking fuel to reduce indoor air pollution, and the Swachh Bharat Mission, which now includes “Swachh Hawa” or clean air as an integral component.
The India Meteorological Department also continues to provide early warning systems and air quality forecasts to help the health sector and local communities prepare for severe pollution episodes. Despite these efforts, the lack of a conclusive data link remains a point of debate among health experts and residents who face the daily reality of the Delhi-NCR air crisis.