Expats to residents, Delhi's air is driving people out

Embassies have stepped up efforts to deal with the situation; WFH option has residents temporarily relocating to their hometowns

- ANUSHKA BHARDWAJ

New Delhi's air pollution levels are proving to be a tipping point for many of its residents and the expats stationed here. Several of them are choosing to relocate or leave the city during the months when the air quality is particularly bad.

Caroline Gabriel, an Australian citizen employed in Delhi, says she has gone back to her home country because her health was getting affected. "I plan to return next month when the AQI (Air Quality Index) levels improve," she adds via a text message.

Embassies, meanwhile, are acting on the situation.

"We have formed an Air Quality Council, an internal group, which serves to advise the ambassador and embassy management on measures we can take to mitigate the effects of air pollution and ensure the air is safe to breathe," says Christopher Elms, spokesperson of the US embassy in New Delhi.

"We have also installed air quality monitors in each of our vehicles," he says, adding that the option of working from home is also open during extremely poor conditions.