Delhi, hosting one of ILRI regional office is reporting high levels of outdoor air pollution (hazardous rating above 400). The situation in Delhi is very complex as most sources of outdoor air pollution are well beyond the control of individuals and demand action by cities, as well as national and international policymakers in sectors like transport, energy waste management, buildings and agriculture.

However ILRI has a responsibility to inform staff on the situation and give guidelines on travel to Delhi.

Delhi air pollution is currently rated at hazardous stage and above, hence only essential travel to Delhi is allowed, all staff must clear with their departmental Director before travel to Delhi.

Activities scheduled for Delhi should be relocated to other areas including other towns in India with better air pollution rating. If you plan to hold an event in India but out of Delhi please consult EOHS on ilrikenyaeohs for guidance on pollution levels for the city.

Pollution in Delhi usually goes high in winter and made worse by activities of Diwali. We advise staff making arrangements for travel to India not to fall between October to March.

If travel to Delhi must happen then follow the below guidelines:

· Staff with underlying chronic health problems such as heart disease, emphysema, bronchitis or asthma should not travel unless it is for very essential services and must obtain clearance from their doctor.

· All staff travelling to Delhi should visit a doctor for medical checkup and clearance before travel.

· If approved to travel staff must wear a mask all the time when outside and minimize your exposure to outdoor environment.

· While in Delhi ensure that you stay in a place that has an air purifier.

At times when air pollution is in or above the “moderate” range, do the following:

• avoid or minimise time outdoors.
• reduce physical exertion
• keep windows and doors closed
• use air conditioner in ‘recirculate’ mode
• consult your medical practitioner if you experience symptoms (Roma at the Delhi office can help with guidance on medical practitioner).

Staff at Delhi Office:

· If not fitted then urgently fit the office with an air purifier.

· Have boxes of masks at the office with clear instructions on wearing.

· Wear a mask every time you are out of the office, including on your way home or to the office.

· Advise staff to have air purifier in their homes.

What are the health concerns of air pollution?

Generally, polluted air causes minor, acute health problems such as eye and nasal irritation and cough. Other symptoms include headache, nausea and vomiting. The chemicals and particles in polluted air can cause breathing passages to become temporarily inflamed, decrease lung capacity and result in wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath and even pain upon deep inhalation. It can also exacerbate chronic heart disease and existing respiratory conditions, like asthma and emphysema. Certain people, for reasons as yet unknown, are particularly sensitive to ozone even without any underlying risk factors.

Some groups are especially vulnerable to problems caused by polluted air. These include older people, children, and anyone with underlying chronic health problems such as heart disease, emphysema, bronchitis or asthma. Long-term exposure to pollution can result in reduced lung function, particularly in children.

Jimmy Smith| Director General
International Livestock Research Institute |ilri.org

Box 30709, 00100 Nairobi, Kenya

Mobile: +254 706 111116 | Off: +254 20 4223202 | Skype: jimmyws195

Email:j.smith@cgiar.org

ILRI is a CGIAR research centre

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