Gurgaon: While policymakers and residents focus on tackling winter pollution, a silent killer has emerged during the warmer months. Ground-level ozone, invisible unlike smog or dust, is breaching national safety standards across Haryana, and doctors warn that prolonged exposure raises the risk of serious respiratory and cardiovascular complications.
Ozone Levels Exceed National Standards
Data from the Central Pollution Control Board, recently analyzed by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air, reveals that 12 of Haryana's 30 air-quality monitoring stations exceeded national ozone standards during May. The exceedances were recorded at stations in Sirsa, Panchgaon, Palwal, Hisar, Gurugram, Yamunanagar, Fatehabad, Jind, Manesar, Karnal, Kurukshetra, and Ballabgarh.
Nathu Colony in Ballabgarh recorded the seventh-highest ground-level ozone concentration in the country, with a maximum eight-hour average of 278 micrograms per cubic metre, nearly three times the national standard of 100 µg/m3. The NISE monitoring station at Gwal Pahari in Gurugram recorded four days when ozone levels exceeded the prescribed limit.
How Ground-Level Ozone Forms
Ground-level ozone is not directly emitted but forms when pollutants from vehicles and industries react with sunlight and heat, making hot summer afternoons particularly conducive to its build-up. Its invisibility means the effects often go unnoticed until a health emergency strikes. High concentrations inflame the airways, producing symptoms such as sore throat, chest pain, coughing, and wheezing. In people with existing respiratory conditions, exposure can trigger severe flare-ups.
Health Impacts Highlighted by Doctors
Dr. Kuldeep Kumar Grover, associate director of pulmonology and critical care at CK Birla Hospital, stated, "Ozone pollution in its highest concentration can be detrimental to health." The pollutant also drives inflammation and oxidative stress, worsening cardiovascular disease. Emerging evidence suggests it may be of particular concern for older adults and those with hypertension or diabetes.
Hospitals are already seeing the pattern. Dr. Mohan Kumar Singh, senior consultant and director of general medicine at Narayana Hospital, noted, "There is a consistent increase in the use of emergency services for breathing difficulties, chest discomfort, worsening asthma, dizziness, and acute exacerbations of underlying heart or lung disease during episodes of high ground-level ozone."
Those at greatest risk include children, the elderly, pregnant women, outdoor workers, athletes, and anyone with asthma, COPD, or heart disease.
Preventive Measures Recommended
Doctors advise checking air-quality indices regularly, staying well hydrated, and keeping windows closed when outdoor air quality deteriorates. Dr. Arunesh Kumar, director and head of pulmonology at Paras Health, emphasized, "Simple preventive measures can go a long way in reducing the health risks associated with summer ozone exposure."
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About the Author: Ipsita Pati is an environment journalist with over a decade of experience, currently reporting for The Times of India. She covers climate change, land use, and green laws, with a focus on regulatory accountability. Her work highlights the environmental implications of policy decisions and development on ground.
