Delhi's Toxic Air Linked to 200,000 Hospital Respiratory Cases

Government data reveals a severe health crisis in India's capital. More than 200,000 patients sought treatment for acute respiratory illnesses at six major public hospitals between 2022 and 2024. New Delhi, home to 30 million people, is consistently ranked one of the world's most polluted capitals. The new figures directly highlight the human cost of its chronic smog. India's health ministry confirmed the link to parliament this week. Officials stated that air pollution acts as a key triggering factor for these respiratory diseases. The hospital cases include severe conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia. They underscore the urgent public health challenge posed by the city's toxic air.