Amid worsening AQI in Mumbai, city-dwellers share how they remain healthy

The recent rise in Mumbai’s AQI levels continues to pose a risk to the respiratory of the residents. File Pic/Ashish Raje

This writer still remembers how, around the same time last year, social media was flooded with posts showcasing Mumbai's improved Air Quality Index (AQI). From stories of residents zooming in on the Worli Sea Link from higher floors to photographs of unusually clear skies, the city's cleaner air seemed almost unreal.

But this year, things appear to have taken a turn, with Mumbai's AQI at 173, indicating poor air quality and raising concerns about exposure to pollutants, particularly among children, adults and people with respiratory conditions, guess the joke is on Mumbaikars now.

Keeping this in mind, we speak to Mumbaikars about how they manage their respiratory issues amid the return of high AQI levels in the city.

Our case, our routine

As someone who has had breathing issues since the age of two, I automatically realise that there is a dip in the quality of the air. Along with being conscious of my triggers, one of my biggest triggers is pollution, to an extent that I avoid taking autos to avoid dust and pollution to some extent.

Unfortunately, since all breathing episodes are different, there is no certain quick-fix, but a few things on top of my head. Here's what I suggest: Avoid stepping out unless necessary; change bedding/linen regularly; take steam inhalation along with a pinch of turmeric twice a day. The safest bet could be to carry prescribed anti-allergy medicine.

Ishita Sharma, 26, Navi Mumbai

Having been born in Mumbai, I recall that the city was comparatively better as a child. But the recent AQI changes have certainly increased a few issues. My topmost issue is mostly dust and really strong smells. Personally, what works best for me is taking a few deep breaths to relieve congestion.

It's important to stabilise yourself in a comfortable position, along with a medically prescribed inhaler by your doctor. Avoid travelling in open vehicles. Unfortunately, since I live on a higher floor closer to the highway, it becomes more difficult. What personally works for me is breathing exercises and Pranayam to help stabilise and assist me in the longer run.

Swapna Salvi, 51, Goregaon