In a report by the World Health Organisation (WHO) that listed the most polluted places in the world, 14 Indian cities found a mention. If one thought being indoors is any better, here is news for them. Several reports by global think tanks also point out that life expectancy in India is going down owing to due to indoor air pollution

In a scenario such as this, air purifiers have stopped being an option.  

“Air purifiers have become a necessity,” says Dr Abhay Kumar, associate vice-president and chief scientific officer, Eureka Forbes. “Air pollution has, unfortunately, become an all-year affair, hence the growing need for air purifiers,” he adds. 

Consumers feel the same way.

Noida-based homemaker, Koena Biswas, 32, says that while she had initially hesitated at the thought of investing in an air purifier, her family is unanimous that they must get one.

“We have toddlers at home … the way pollution has started impacting our life, it (air purifier) is no longer a luxury. However, authorities must work towards long-term goals to mitigate pollution else cities like Delhi-NCR,” she Biswas.

The many kinds

Now if one does make up their mind, what are their options?

According to Kumar, purifiers that have high-efficiency particulate absorber (HEPA) filters are the best ones that consumer should buy. The best HEPA air purifiers trap around 90 percent of all particles, 0.3 microns or larger in size that enters it. An efficient HEPA filter air purifier has far more accuracy in getting rid of harmful pollutants in the air when compared to an air purifier that uses any other filtration system. One can also test it by using it in a dusty room on an hourly basis to get the best result.

“Our brand has purifiers where the multi-stage purification system removes large particles, odor, bacteria and any other particles harmful to the human body,” he adds.

Battling it outside

Indian cities are also trying seen installing air purifiers in the open for the public good. For example, the Karnataka Road Development Corporation plans to install open air purifiers and carbon absorbent machines when the proposed elevated corridor becomes a reality. WAYU air purifiers have also made its way into national capital Delhi.

“Considering the level of pollution these purifier performances is not very effective to control pollution. Periodic cleaning may be required to maintain the performance,” says Kumar.

More intervention needed

Kumar maintains that while the government has been largely working towards keeping pollution levels in check, the measurable impact should be the focus area.

To curb emissions, policies must be introduced to penalize individuals/organizations if they exceed the limit. Smoking booths should also be installed for people wanting to smoke in public places towards achieving that goal. Car-pooling is another way to reduce air pollution and congestion. Incentives must be offered to those using CNG cars.

Disposal of waste should be done through eco-friendly methods rather than burning it on the outskirts of a city.

Installation of solar panels at homes, multi-storey buildings and commercial establishments to decentralize power generated in an environment-friendly manner also reducing our dependence on coal.

Prevention is better

For those spending a lot of time on the roads or in the traffic, unfortunately, precaution is the only cure.  Kumar gives the following tips:

• Wear an anti-pollution mask whenever you step out of your home.
• Avoid smoking in the public.
• Avoid heavy traffic or crowded area during peak hours
• Simple cloth protection to prevent dust particle will help to some extent

Also Read: What are the alternatives of air purifier 
Also Read: Want To Rent Air Purifiers? Here You Go

(Makaan Website)