'Why is there no public awareness?': Ixigo CEO questions people for not wearing masks amid rising Delhi AQI

The post struck a chord with many on social media, with users expressing solidarity and sharing their own experiences. (Image: @ANI)

New Delhi’s air quality has reached dangerous levels, leading concerned residents and health advocates to urge the public to take protective measures. Among them was Ixigo CEO Aloke Bajpai, who recently shared his frustrations on social media about people’s reluctance to wear masks in response to rising pollution.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in some areas has exceeded 500, a level deemed hazardous. Bajpai noted that his own children were some of the only ones wearing masks to school, yet other parents questioned him, asking if there was an issue with their health.

"At 500+ AQI, my kids seemed like the only ones wearing masks to school, and a parent asks me - everything OK with your son? Well, everything is not OK with the air these kids are breathing. And then I notice 50+ elderly people in my society on their morning walk. Why is there no public health awareness campaign around this yet ? All you need to do is talk to some lung doctors to understand the looming health crisis," Bajpai wrote.

At 500+ AQI, my kids seemed like the only ones wearing masks to school, and a parent asks me - everything OK with your son? Well, everything is not OK with the air these kids are breathing. And then I notice 50+ elderly people in my society on their morning walk. Why is there no
Aloke Bajpai (@alokebajpai) November 14, 2024

He expressed concern about the general lack of awareness and seriousness surrounding the health risks of air pollution. Bajpai also shared an anecdote of an older resident who downplayed the risks by saying, “Now we have immunity,” a sentiment he felt was indicative of a broader public misconception about air pollution’s health impact.

The post struck a chord with many on social media, with users expressing solidarity and sharing their own experiences. Some suggested that those who can afford it should consider relocating to areas with better air quality, arguing that health should take precedence over convenience. Bajpai, however, responded that relocating is not a viable option for most people. He also emphasised that N99 masks do offer significant protection and are one of the few feasible solutions for those living in the city.

"Masks might reduce disease spread but don’t fit tightly enough to significantly block polluted air. For those who have achieved financial independence, relocating to a place with cleaner air could be first priority to put family health above familiarity or convenience," a user wrote.

Another user commented, "Be the solution: Buy CNG or EV. This is how you get rid of pollution."

Several other users described how they have come to rely on high-quality masks for everyday activities, from cycling to commuting, and noted improvements in their sleep and overall well-being as a result. Other parents echoed Bajpai’s concerns, mentioning that their own children were often the only ones wearing masks at school, highlighting a worrying trend of low mask usage among children and young students despite the clear health risks of exposure to severely polluted air​.