Delhi AQI crosses 400: Pulmonologist and nutritionist reveal ways to purify indoor air, what to have in survival kit

As Delhi's air quality continues to dip, with the AQI at 444, a nutritionist and pulmonologist share key tips to stay safe and safeguard your health.

Delhi's air pollution crisis continued on Sunday, January 18, morning as the AQI in the national capital remained in the ‘severe’ category, recorded at 444 at 7 AM, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

With air quality deteriorating, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked Grap Stage 4 emergency restrictions on Saturday evening. (PTI)

On Saturday, it had surged to 434 by 11 PM, marking the first “severe” air day since December 29. With air quality deteriorating, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked Grap Stage 4 emergency restrictions on Saturday evening.

Ways to purify indoor air

Given the toxic air outside, it is important to take measures that can protect your lungs and overall health. While remaining indoors is important, air pollutants can also enter your bedroom. In an October 22, 2024, interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Sachin Kumar, a pulmonologist from Bengaluru, shared simple hacks to purify the indoor air. Let's know about the steps he had suggested:

Brief exposure to air pollution can have drastic effects. (Shutterstock.)

1. Avoid second-hand smoking (exhaled cigarette smoke) and third-hand smoking (smoke found on clothes, surfaces, etc.).

2. Use real-time air quality checking devices to check the presence of PM 2.5, carbon monoxide, chemicals, etc.

3. Use air purifiers with high efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filters, as it is said that HEPA can remove 99 percent of air pollutants.

4. If you have pets, then often clean them since their skin, fur, or hair can bring home dust, moulds, etc.

5. Improve ventilation by regularly checking the filtration devices used and by dusting.

6. Burning of wood has a tendency to release harmful gas, while heating systems have the potential to release odourless gas like carbon monoxide. These can cause respiratory illnesses, such as suffocation. So, opt for solar and electric heating, as they are better options for now.

7. Decorate your home with succulent plants like aloe vera, peace lily, snake plants, etc. These plants can be a good, organic option for purifying indoor air.

Delhi recorded severe AQI levels on Saturday evening and Sunday morning. (Parveen Kumar/HT)

Survival kit for poor AQI

In a December 2025 interview with HT Lifestyle, Delhi-based nutritionist Sakshi Lalwani shared her unique “survival kit” to combat the health hazards posed by severe AQI in the national capital. Here's what is inside her kit:

• N95 mask to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles
• A steam inhaler to help soothe inflamed passages and make breathing easier
• Vitamin C and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) supplements to address oxidative stress from pollutants and reduce inflammation in the body.
• Nasal saline spray
• Ghee (for nasal lining)
• Hydrating electrolyte mix
• Anti-pollution herbal tea (tulsi + mulethi + ginger)
• Cold-pressed oils for the skin barrier
• Sunglasses (for eye protection)

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.