New Delhi’s severe air pollution is impacting pets and street animals, causing health problems such as respiratory distress, eye irritation, and behavioral changes, according to veterinarians and animal welfare activists.
Veterinarian Sumit Nagar noted a rise in cases of coughing, sneezing, and chest congestion among animals. During Diwali, noise pollution and burns from fireworks further aggravate their conditions. Pet owners are reducing outdoor activities, but this leads to behavioral issues like aggression in dogs. Cats are also affected, showing signs of sneezing and eye irritation, with many avoiding the outdoors altogether.
Street animals face greater risks, including hit-and-run incidents due to low visibility caused by smog. Animal welfare activists like Sanjay Mohapatra highlight the lack of awareness about how pollution harms animals, particularly those near industrial areas.
Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) remains in the “severe” category. Authorities have activated Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to curb pollution through stricter regulations on construction, industries, and vehicular movement.
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