"Delhi's Air Crisis: A Stark Divide between Poverty and Privilege"

Delhi's toxic air pollution is exacerbating socioeconomic inequality, as the poorest residents, like rickshaw driver Rizwan, are unable to afford personal mitigation measures such as masks or air purifiers. The city's 30 million residents are exposed to dangerous levels of fine particulate matter, causing serious health risks including strokes, heart disease, and lung cancer. In contrast, wealthier residents like cinematographer Madhav Mathur can afford air purifiers and masks, but still face challenges such as loss of vibrancy in camera colors due to the "thick layer of soot." Experts emphasize the need for year-round action to reduce emissions and protect the health of all residents.