Indian techie warns even Bangaluru struggles to breathe amid India's escalating air pollution crisis

Air quality in India, long a subject of concern for environmentalists and health experts, has been thrust into the spotlight again, thanks to a series of viral social media posts by Debarghya 'Deedy' Das, an Indian-origin venture capitalist and tech influencer based in San Francisco. Drawing on his personal experiences and observations, Das labeled the deteriorating air quality in the country as a "massive health crisis" that many seem to dismiss. His posts have sparked a heated discussion, resonating with some while also attracting criticism.

Das, who grew up in Kolkata and later moved to the United States for higher education, detailed his experiences during visits to India. In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote about the noticeable impact of poor air quality on his health. "Every time I’m in India, I notice my eyes water more, I blow my nose more, and people around me cough more,” he shared. He added that his parents dismissed these symptoms as “allergies,” but pointed out that these issues disappeared when they visited him in the United States.
During a recent trip to Delhi for a wedding, Das recalled conversations with American attendees who were alarmed by the city’s air quality. Initially polite, they later admitted their shock, describing the air as “crazy” and expressing concerns about its safety, even for everyday activities like exercising.


While Delhi often dominates headlines for its hazardous air quality, Das emphasized that the problem extends well beyond the capital. “The narrative that ‘only Delhi winters are bad’ is ridiculous,” he stated, adding that even cities considered relatively cleaner, such as Bangaluru, suffer from air pollution.
“I lived in Bangalore for a year, and people there constantly coughed, had clogged noses, and experienced a range of ‘allergies,’” Das explained. He questioned the normalization of such health issues, urging citizens to view them as symptoms of a larger environmental crisis rather than mere inconveniences.

Das also addressed a cultural tendency to frame endurance of difficult conditions as a mark of resilience. "Surviving tough environments shouldn’t be glorified as strength. It’s a crisis that demands attention and action,” he argued in a follow-up post. His remarks called for a shift in perspective, emphasizing the need to prioritize public health over misplaced notions of fortitude.

The social media posts quickly went viral, garnering over 1.9 million views, 28,000 likes, and more than 1,000 comments. Many non-resident Indians (NRIs) and domestic citizens echoed Das’s concerns, acknowledging the validity of his observations. However, not everyone agreed. Some critics accused him of exaggeration, while others attributed his discomfort to "weak immunity."
Despite the polarized reactions, Das’s commentary succeeded in reigniting a broader conversation about air pollution in India. Many supporters saw his posts as a much-needed wake-up call, highlighting a public health crisis that affects millions across the country.

India’s air quality issues are well-documented, with cities frequently topping global rankings for the worst pollution levels. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that air pollution contributes to millions of premature deaths worldwide, with India bearing a significant share. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels in many Indian cities far exceed safe limits, leading to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, reduced life expectancy, and economic losses.
Experts have long pointed out the need for robust policy measures to tackle pollution, including stricter enforcement of emissions standards, expansion of public transportation, and increased green cover in urban areas. Public awareness campaigns are also essential to encourage behavioral changes and demand accountability from policymakers.

Das’s observations underline a critical truth: addressing India’s air quality crisis is not just a matter of comfort but an urgent public health imperative. His candid remarks reflect the lived experiences of many and highlight the need for collective action to combat the environmental challenges threatening the nation’s well-being.
As Das aptly noted, “We live in denial of a massive health crisis.” It is a call to confront the reality of air pollution and work towards solutions that protect both people and the planet.
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