Indian-origin techie says even Bangalore is not safe to breathe amid alarming air pollution crisis in India, ET HealthWorld
New Delhi: Debarghya ‘Deedy’ Das, an Indian-origin venture capitalist has ignited a heated conversation about India’s air quality, calling it a “massive health crisis” that the country seems to be in denial about. Das, a tech influencer based in San Francisco, shared his observations on social media, which quickly resonated with many while also drawing criticism from some.
Experiencing the Crisis Firsthand
Das, who previously lived in Kolkata and later moved to the United States for higher education, highlighted his personal experiences during visits to India. “Every time I’m in India, I notice my eyes water more, I blow my nose more, and people around me cough more,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Das said his parents attributed these symptoms to “allergies,” but noted that they vanish when his parents visit him in the U.S.
During a recent wedding in Delhi, Das interacted with attendees from the U.S., who were shocked by the air quality. “They were polite at first,” Das recalled, “but later admitted they found the air ‘crazy’ and expressed concerns about its safety, even for simple activities like working out.”
Air Quality Beyond Delhi
While Delhi is notorious for its pollution, Das emphasized that poor air quality isn’t confined to the capital. “The narrative that ‘only Delhi winters are bad’ is ridiculous,” he stated. “Even in Bangalore, considered a cleaner city, people cough all the time, have clogged noses, and suffer from a range of ‘allergies.’ I lived there for a year and can attest to that.”
Das challenged the mindset that enduring such conditions is a sign of resilience. “Surviving tough environments shouldn’t be glorified as strength. It’s a crisis that demands attention and action,” he said in a follow-up post.
Mixed Reactions Online
The tech influencer’s remarks struck a chord with many non-resident Indians (NRIs) and citizens who acknowledged the validity of his observations. However, not everyone agreed. Some criticized Das for “overstating” the issue, while others attributed his discomfort to “weak immunity.”
Despite the polarized reactions, the initial post received significant engagement, amassing over 1.9 million views, 28,000 likes, and more than 1,000 comments.
The debate sparked by Das’s post sheds light on a pressing issue that affects millions across India. While some dismissed his concerns, many saw his comments as a wake-up call to confront the environmental challenges that impact public health.
Das’s observations serve as a reminder that addressing air quality is not just about comfort but also about safeguarding the well-being of a nation. As he aptly put it, “We live in denial of a massive health crisis.”
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