Nitin Gadkari Says ‘Two Days in Delhi and I Get Infected,’ — The Actual Horror That People in Delhi-NCR Are Facing

Nitin Gadkari acknowledged that Delhi’s air pollution affects him personally, leaving him with an infection every time he visits the capital. “If I stay in Delhi for barely two days, I get a throat infection," the minister said, underscoring the severity of the capital’s air quality crisis. Gadkari also accepted responsibility as Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, stating that the sector he oversees is a major contributor to pollution. “I am the Transport Minister, and around 40 per cent of pollution happens because of us, mainly due to the use of fossil fuels," he said. His remarks come at a time when toxic smog has severely shot the air quality index across Delhi-NCR, triggering health advisories and major restrictions. People

in the city complain of breathing issues, itchy and dry eyes that burn, skin problems, hairfall, and a rise in cardiac and kidney problems. According to doctors, air pollution – a combination of the indoor or outdoor environment by harmful chemical, physical, or biological agents, like gases, ozone, carbon monoxide, dust, smoke, and particles- modifies the atmosphere and negatively affects humans, animals, plants, and the planet. A few major causes include burning fossil fuels in vehicles, factories, and power plants, wildfires, and natural events like volcanic eruptions, which lead to severe respiratory diseases and heart issues, and contribute to climate change.

How does air pollution harm your health?

Air pollution harms nearly every organ, leading to inflammation and oxidative stress, causing respiratory diseases like asthma, COPD, lung cancer, heart issues like heart attacks and strokes, and many neurological disorders, which include dementia, Parkinson's disease, and metabolic issues like diabetes and obesity. Doctors say long-term exposure to pollutants, which include particulate matter, causes reproductive problems and increases risks for cancers, immune system damage, and even premature death.

How to protect your health?

You cannot control the air and pollution, but with a few handy tips, you can reduce how much of it your body can absorb. Small daily habits make a real difference, including:

Limit exposure

Make sure to daily check AQI levels and avoid outdoor activities when levels are “very poor” or “severe.” You can also do indoor exercise on high-pollution days.

Use proper protection

Wear a certified N95 or N99 mask outdoors and ensure a snug fit over the nose and mouth.

Improve indoor air

Keep your windows closed during peak pollution hours - early morning, late night, and use an air purifier with a HEPA filter. Always wet-mop floors; avoid incense, agarbatti, and smoking indoors

Support your lungs

Stay well-hydrated to help your body clear pollutants. Steam inhalation eases irritation.

High immunity-boosting foods

Add vitamin C, omega-3s, antioxidants like citrus fruits, walnuts, turmeric, and completely stop eating junk food that worsens inflammation

Protect your recovery

Get 7 to 8 hours of sleep, as it is important since pollution increases inflammation and fatigue. Shower after coming home to remove pollutants from skin and hair.