Delhi: Air purifier, mask sales up as city grapples with severe air pollution

With air pollution in Delhi and the National Capital Region reaching critical levels, the sale of air purifiers and masks has risen sharply, city traders said.

Delhi’s air quality entered the ‘severe plus’ category on Monday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) hitting 484 — the highest of the season, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

As residents grapple with the deteriorating air, traders noted a growing demand for air purifiers and masks, which many now consider essential for protecting their health.

Vijendra Mohan, owner of Air Expert India in Indirapuram, shared that sales of air purifiers have surged significantly since pollution levels crossed into the ‘severe’ category.

“Previously, we sold around 20 purifiers daily, sometimes over two days. Now, sales have doubled to 40 per day. Air purifiers have become a household necessity, and I am handling over 150 inquiries daily,” Mohan stated.

Rakesh Singh, who operates a Blueair dealership in Pushp Vihar, echoed the sentiment, saying, “Last month, I was selling 10 to 12 purifiers a day. Now, daily sales have reached 25 units.” He added that this rising demand has been consistent over the past few weeks.

Ravi Kaushik, owner of Airth Air Purifier Company in Vikaspuri, reported a 70% increase in sales since late October. “Typically, sales hover around 20%, but this time, they’ve surged to 70% due to worsening air quality,” he explained.

Kaushik further highlighted that homes near busy roads face elevated pollution levels, often leading to respiratory issues. Advanced air purifiers can help by filtering harmful particles and ensuring cleaner indoor air, he noted.

Also Read: Residents make a beeline for air purifiers as pollution chokes Delhi

A chemist in East Delhi mentioned a significant spike in sales of paediatric nebulisers and low-dose inhalers in November, surpassing totals for the past ten months. “The number of parents seeking respiratory aids for their children is deeply concerning,” the chemist observed.

Rajeev Kumar, a salesperson at Apollo Pharmacy, reported a sharp rise in mask sales. “Previously, we sold five to six masks daily, but now, sales exceed 40 to 45 masks a day,” he remarked.

As the AQI surpassed 450, the Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas implemented Stage-IV restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

(With inputs from PTI)