Doctors in the city have warned against any physical exertion that will put pressure on the lungs because of adverse air pollution levels. The worst hit seem to be the people who exercise outdoors as per their doctor’s advise to keep fit or as a form of recreation.
‘Healthy citizens an asset’
Avid runner and fashion designer Namrata Joshipura said: “Running helped me overcome childhood asthma and strengthened my lungs. Now I can safely say that running outdoors will reverse that. It’s ironic and tragic. Healthy citizens are the greatest asset any country can have. Unless drastic corrective long-term measures are taken by both the State and Centre, we are doomed. Cancelling one sporting event [the Airtel marathon] will not save us. There needs to be complete ban on everything outdoors — concerts, races and events. Runners will run at their own risk. As a runner and a citizen I seek fresh air — the most basic need to live. Am I asking for too much?”
“Running means different things to different people. For some it is just a form of exercise, a break from routine life, an opportunity to socialise out of their usual circles while for others it is a way of life,’’ said Tarun Welcha, architect and sports enthusiast.
‘Tackle the real cause’
Mr. Welcha, who has been running for almost seven years now and has participated in several marathons, added, “The prime concern is air pollution in Delhi currently. What should I do about it? If I was to take these people’s advice, I would stop running....Running makes my lungs stronger, increases my immunity, and makes me physically and mentally stronger. Why would these people want me to stop running? If pollution is a concern and if deteriorating air quality is what matters to them, why are they not pointing a finger at the real cause. We must go after the reasons and causes of pollution.”
Meanwhile, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has called for immediate cancellation of the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon, scheduled for November 19.
IMA president K. K. Aggarwal said: “The Air Quality Index [AQI] in the Capital has constantly ranged from very unhealthy to hazardous levels since the past few days, with the AQI crossing the 300 danger mark at many places. The air quality is particularly poor early in the morning, a time when the half marathon is scheduled to start. Air pollution not only affects the performance of runners, but may have disastrous health consequences, even for healthy participants, including volunteers.”
