CEO Criticizes Public for Failing to Wear Masks as AQI in Delhi-NCR Reaches Hazardous Levels

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Aloke Bajpai, CEO and co-founder of ixigo, has expressed frustration over the growing number of people in Delhi-NCR who are ignoring the dangerous air quality and refusing to wear masks. With the air quality index (AQI) reaching hazardous levels in the region, Bajpai took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to criticize individuals dismissing the severity of the pollution and its health risks.

CEO Aloke Bajpai Criticizes Public for Ignoring Mask Use Amid Rising Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR
CEO Aloke Bajpai Criticizes Public for Ignoring Mask Use Amid Rising Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR

Aloke Bajpai, CEO and co-founder of ixigo, has expressed frustration over the growing number of people in Delhi-NCR who are ignoring the dangerous air quality and refusing to wear masks. With the air quality index (AQI) reaching hazardous levels in the region, Bajpai took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to criticize individuals dismissing the severity of the pollution and its health risks.

The air quality in New Delhi and its surrounding National Capital Region (NCR) has been deteriorating, causing a surge in respiratory issues, including asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). In his post, Bajpai shared his concern over the lack of public awareness and the rising number of people who continue to dismiss the importance of protective measures like wearing masks.

“At 500+ AQI, my kids seemed like the only ones wearing masks to school, and a parent asked me – everything OK with your son? Well, everything is not OK with the air these kids are breathing,” Bajpai wrote, highlighting the lack of awareness in his community. He added that while his children took precautions, many elderly people were still seen walking outdoors without masks. He questioned why there is no large-scale public health awareness campaign, despite the growing health crisis.

Bajpai further shared a disheartening interaction with an individual who shrugged off the issue, stating, “Ab to hamein immunity hai ji” (Now we are immune), a comment that reflects the casual attitude many have toward the dangers of air pollution.

Social media reactions were divided, with many agreeing with Bajpai’s concerns, while others suggested that Bajpai and others affected by the pollution should relocate to areas with better air quality. One user wrote, “Masks might reduce disease spread but don’t fit tightly enough to significantly block polluted air. For those who have achieved financial independence, relocating to a place with cleaner air could be the first priority to put family health above familiarity or convenience.” Bajpai responded by clarifying that he had researched the topic thoroughly and found that N99 masks, which provide stronger protection against polluted air, are effective. He stressed that moving away is not a practical solution for everyone.

Others shared their own experiences with the hazardous air quality, with one commenter stating, “N99 masks are just essential to step out nowadays. I find myself wearing them when cycling now. Too much dust and I can see a clear difference in how well I sleep.” Another user echoed Bajpai’s concerns, sharing that their child was one of the few masked at a local school bus stop.

The issue of air pollution in Delhi-NCR has long been a source of frustration for residents, with the region often recording some of the highest AQI levels in the world. Experts warn that prolonged exposure to such hazardous air quality can lead to serious long-term health issues, especially for children and the elderly. Bajpai’s social media post has sparked a wider conversation about the lack of public awareness and the urgent need for government action to address the pollution crisis.

Sources By Agencies

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