In recent years, the growing levels of air pollution in urban areas have become a significant concern for residents, health professionals, and environmentalists alike. Air pollution is responsible for the premature deaths of approximately 2 million people in India each year. The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, enacted in 1981 to regulate air pollution, has struggled to achieve its goals due to weak enforcement of its provisions. Moreover, with increasing industrialization, vehicular emissions, and construction activities, many cities are grappling with poor air quality. This blog delves into the pressing need for air purifiers in urban spaces, focusing on the challenges faced by residents of cities like Delhi, and how air purifiers can help improve indoor air quality.

Air Quality Issues in Urban Areas

Urban areas are often home to a high concentration of vehicles, factories, and construction sites, all of which contribute to the deterioration of air quality. While air pollution is a global issue, cities like Delhi, Beijing, and Mexico City are particularly notorious for their hazardous air quality. Pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide are commonly found in the air, which not only cause environmental damage but also pose significant health risks to residents. Long-term exposure to poor air quality can lead to respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, and even premature death. In addition, indoor pollutants like pet dander, mold spores, and chemicals from household cleaning products contribute to further deterioration of air quality. High-rise apartments, with their limited ventilation, often trap these pollutants indoors. Poor indoor air quality has been linked to respiratory diseases, allergies, and other health related problems, which makes air purifiers important in urban living environments.

In such an environment, ensuring clean, breathable air inside homes and offices has become a priority and this is where air purifiers come into play.

Specific Challenges Faced by Delhi Residents

Delhi is counted among one of the most polluted cities across the globe. Residents face a particularly challenging environment, where the quality of outdoor air often reaches hazardous levels, especially during the winter months due to Deepavali firecracker smoke, agricultural stubble burning, and smog. A major source of pollution in Delhi is dust from construction activities and nearby desert regions. Combined with vehicular emissions, industrial pollutants, and the burning of crop stubble in neighboring states, the city’s air becomes laden with harmful particulate matter. In cities like Delhi, where pollution frequently surpasses hazardous levels, the situation has become increasingly urgent. As of early 2025, Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) has consistently remained in the "very poor" category, with readings exceeding 400 in several areas.

Additionally, Delhi is known for the pungent smell of ammonia in the air, largely due to the presence of numerous factories that release this chemical into the environment. This leads to respiratory issues and discomfort among residents. Many people living in Delhi suffers from irritation in the eyes, throat, and nose, as well as chronic conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and other lung diseases.

Traffic congestion in Delhi and other Indian cities is severe, contributing significantly to local air pollution, especially during periods of stagnant weather. Average travel speeds in many urban areas fall below 20 kilometres per hour, meaning a 10-kilometre journey can take 30 minutes or longer. At such low speeds, vehicles emit 4 to 8 times more air pollutants compared to conditions with smoother traffic flow. Additionally, fuel consumption—and thus the carbon footprint—per trip is considerably higher under congested conditions. Over time, emissions of particulate matter and heavy metals have continued to rise, as the expansion of the vehicle fleet and total mileage driven outpace efforts to reduce pollution.

In October 2023, the Delhi Government declared a health emergency in several parts of the city, prompting the closure of schools and other educational institutions. The thick smog in the air has also disrupted flight operations, making aircraft landings at Delhi airports difficult. In response to the severe pollution levels, the government has made it compulsory for all residents to wear masks or cover their faces with cloth while outdoors.

In this scenario, it is not just outdoor pollution that poses a threat; indoor air quality is also a concern. The pollution from outside easily enters homes and workplaces, affecting the air people breathe indoors. It is clear that Delhi residents, and others living in similarly polluted cities, are in dire need of solutions to mitigate the impact of polluted air. Thus, an increasing number of Delhi residents are turning to air purifiers to cope with the soaring air pollution levels. Popular brands in India, such as Dyson, PHILIPS, Quobo, Honeywell, and Xiaomi, have seen a surge in sales.

The government has introduced several initiatives to tackle air pollution in Delhi, such as enforcing the odd-even vehicle rule, prohibiting the use of firecrackers, and encouraging the use of public transport. However, it's equally important for individuals to take personal responsibility by using air purifiers, wearing protective masks, and minimizing their carbon emissions. Consistently monitoring air quality levels is essential to stay aware and take appropriate steps to safeguard health.

India’s persistent pollution crisis has prompted local authorities to introduce a range of countermeasures, such as restricting vehicle usage, halting construction work, and temporarily closing schools during periods of severe air pollution. For example, the Delhi government frequently issues a "Red Alert" during extreme pollution episodes, advising residents to remain indoors.

At the national level, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) is actively collaborating with local agencies to expand the network of air quality monitoring stations across various cities. The ministry is also promoting the adoption of air filtration technologies aimed at purifying outdoor air. Additionally, the Indian government’s Clean Air Research Initiative is focused on developing innovative air purification solutions tailored to the country's specific environmental challenges.

Understanding Air Purifiers and Their Benefits

An air purifier is an appliance designed to remove contaminants from the air within a room or an entire building. These devices help improve indoor air quality, which is especially important for people with respiratory conditions, allergies, or sensitivity to pollutants.

How Do Air Purifiers Work?

The functioning of most air purifiers includes drawing in air from the room and passing it through a series of filters which trap pollutants, toxins and allergens. Two of the most common types of filters found in air purifiers are HEPA filters and carbon filters.

HEPA Filters: High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are designed to capture small particles like dust, pollen, bacteria and viruses, and even pet dander. These filters are extremely efficient and can trap particles as small as 0.3 microns with an efficiency rate of 99.97%. HEPA filters are particularly useful in cities like Delhi, where particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) is a major concern.

Carbon Filters: These filters are made of activated carbon, which adsorbs gases, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and unpleasant odors, such as ammonia and factory smells. This makes them an essential tool in areas like Delhi, where industrial pollution and smells from nearby factories are pervasive.

Benefits of Air Purifiers

Air purifiers can significantly improve indoor air quality by reducing allergens, toxins, and pollutants, providing several benefits:

Healthier Breathing: Clean air is essential for maintaining strong respiratory health, particularly in environments with high levels of pollutants. By reducing airborne contaminants, clean air significantly lowers the risk of respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Air purifiers play a vital role in this process, especially for individuals suffering from allergies or asthma. Equipped with HEPA filters, many purifiers effectively capture microscopic allergens like pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and dust mites. By removing these irritants from the indoor environment, air purifiers help prevent allergy flare-ups and asthma attacks, making it easier to breathe and improving overall lung function.

Odor Removal: Persistent odors from sources such as cooking, tobacco smoke, pets, garbage, or nearby industrial activity can significantly affect indoor comfort and air quality. Advanced air purifiers with activated carbon filters are designed to neutralize these odors by trapping gaseous pollutants and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This not only creates a fresher and more pleasant indoor environment but also reduces exposure to harmful chemical compounds that can irritate the lungs and skin.

Better Sleep: Indoor air quality has a direct impact on sleep quality. Pollutants such as dust, allergens, and even subtle chemical fumes can disturb breathing patterns during sleep, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions. Cleaner air means fewer nighttime interruptions from coughing, sneezing, or congestion. By reducing these disturbances, air purifiers help individuals fall asleep faster, experience deeper sleep cycles, and wake up feeling more rested and rejuvenated.

Preventing Respiratory Issues and Enhancing Well-being: Long-term exposure to polluted indoor air can lead to chronic health problems, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular strain, and weakened immune function. Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable. Air purifiers offer a proactive approach to health by filtering out airborne pollutants such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5), bacteria, viruses, and toxic chemicals. This not only helps protect lung health but also contributes to improved cognitive function, reduced fatigue, and an overall sense of well-being. When integrated into a healthy lifestyle, clean indoor air can play a significant role in disease prevention and long-term health maintenance.

Considerations for Choosing an Air Purifier

When selecting an air purifier, several factors need to be taken into account to ensure the right fit for the home or office. Here are some key considerations:

Room Size: Air purifiers are designed to clean air in a specific room size. One should always check the device's coverage area (usually measured in square feet or square meters) and ensure it matches the size of the room where one plans to use it.

Filter Type: As discussed earlier, HEPA and carbon filters are the most common. If one is dealing with allergens or particulate matter, a HEPA filter is a must. For homes near factories or areas with strong odors, a purifier with a carbon filter will be essential.

Noise Levels: Some air purifiers generate disruptive noise, especially at night and thus one should look for models with noise levels that are suitable for the environment.

Maintenance Costs: The filters should be replaced regularly, depending on their usage and air quality.  One should be aware of the cost and availability of replacement filters.

Energy Efficiency: Since air purifiers are often used for long hours, choosing an energy-efficient model is helpful in help reduce electricity costs.

Practical Usage Tips

To maximize the effectiveness of your air purifier, consider these practical tips:

Keep Windows and Doors Closed: While using an air purifier, ensure that windows and doors are closed to prevent pollutants from entering the room.

Place the Purifier Correctly: Air purifiers should be placed in areas where air circulation is optimal. Keep them away from walls or corners to allow for better airflow. Also, they should not be placed near moisture sources like bathrooms or kitchens unless the device is designed to handle humidity.

Regular Maintenance: Clean or replace the filters as per the manufacturer’s instructions. A clogged filter can reduce the purifier’s efficiency.

Continuous Operation: For the best results, keep the air purifier running continuously, especially during periods of high outdoor pollution.

Clean or Replace the Filters Regularly: Filters are the core component of an air purifier. Over time, they accumulate dust, allergens, and pollutants, which can reduce the purifier’s effectiveness if not cleaned or replaced as recommended. HEPA filters generally need replacement every 6–12 months, depending on usage and manufacturer guidelines. Carbon filters that trap odors and gases typically need replacing every 3–6 months. Some purifiers have washable pre-filters that should be cleaned monthly.

Keep Your Air Purifier ON All the Time: Air pollution, both indoor and outdoor, is a continuous process. Turning off your air purifier allows pollutants to build up again, especially in urban or industrial areas.

Keep the Surrounding Area Clean: Reducing the amount of dust and pollutants in the environment helps the purifier perform better and extends the life of the filters.

The Future of Air Purification Technology

Advancements in technology are making air purifiers increasingly intelligent and efficient. AI-enabled models can monitor air quality in real time and automatically adjust their filtration settings for optimal performance. Many purifiers now integrate with smart home systems, such as Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit giving users the ability to manage air quality remotely. Additionally, eco-conscious innovations like biodegradable filters and energy-efficient designs are paving the way for a more sustainable and effective future in air purification. Liquid trees and similar systems can be integrated into urban infrastructure—such as bus stops and traffic islands—to enhance air quality in public areas. Emerging technologies such as nanofibers and polar ionization are being investigated for their potential in air purification, with some even exploring the use of wool-based air purifiers.

According to TechSci Research “India Air Purifiers Market By Filter Type (HEPA + Activated Carbon, Prefilter + HEPA + Activated Carbon, Prefilter + HEPA, HEPA and Others), By End Use (Residential, Commercial, Industrial) By Region, By Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2019-2029F,” India Air Purifiers Market was valued at USD 75.89 million in 2023 and is anticipated to project robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 33.76% through 2029. India's air purifier market is experiencing significant growth, driven by a confluence of environmental, economic, and technological factors. As urbanization accelerates and air quality deteriorates, consumers are increasingly turning to air purifiers to safeguard their health and well-being. Here's an in-depth look at the key drivers propelling this market expansion.

Factors Driving the Growth of India's Air Purifier Market

India's air purifier market is experiencing significant growth. This growth is the result of a confluence of environmental, economic, and technological factors. As urbanization accelerates and air quality deteriorates, consumers are increasingly turning to air purifiers to safeguard their health and well-being. Here's an in-depth look at the key drivers propelling this market expansion.

1. Escalating Air Pollution Levels

India's rapid industrialization, coupled with vehicular emissions and agricultural practices like stubble burning, has led to alarmingly high levels of air pollution. Cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata frequently record hazardous Air Quality Index (AQI) levels, with particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) concentrations far exceeding safe limits. This pervasive pollution has heightened public awareness about the detrimental health effects, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and premature mortality. Consequently, there's a growing demand for air purifiers as a protective measure against indoor air contamination.

2. Rising Health Consciousness

With increasing awareness of the health risks associated with poor air quality, particularly among vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, consumers are prioritizing indoor air quality. Reports indicate that every third child in Delhi suffers from impaired lung function due to elevated pollution levels. This surge in health concerns is driving the adoption of air purifiers, positioning them as essential health and wellness devices in urban households.

3. Technological Advancements in Air Purifiers

The air purifier market is witnessing innovation, with manufacturers introducing advanced features such as HEPA filters, activated carbon technology, UV sterilization, and IoT-enabled smart devices. These technological enhancements improve the efficiency and user experience of air purifiers, making them more appealing to tech-savvy consumers seeking convenience and real-time air quality monitoring.

4. Government Initiatives and Policies

The Indian government's proactive stance on combating air pollution has further fueled the growth of the air purifier market. The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), launched in 2019, targets a 20–30% reduction in particulate matter levels across 132 cities by 2024, backed by a significant budget allocation. Additionally, policies promoting smart city initiatives and stricter indoor air quality standards are encouraging the adoption of air purifiers in both residential and commercial spaces.

5. Economic Growth and Increased Disposable Income

India's growing middle class and increasing disposable incomes have made air purifiers more affordable and accessible to a wider portion of the population. As consumers' purchasing power increases, they are more inclined to invest in products that enhance their quality of life, including air purifiers. This economic shift is contributing to the market's expansion, particularly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.

6. E-Commerce and Retail Expansion

The proliferation of e-commerce platforms has revolutionized the accessibility of air purifiers, allowing consumers across the country to compare prices, read reviews, and make informed purchasing decisions. Additionally, the growth of retail outlets and specialty stores has increased the visibility of air purifiers, facilitating their adoption among a wider audience.

7. Commercial and Industrial Adoption

Beyond residential use, air purifiers are gaining traction in commercial and industrial sectors. Offices, hospitals, schools, and hotels are increasingly installing air purification systems to ensure a healthier environment for employees and customers. This trend is driven by regulatory pressures and a heightened focus on employee well-being.

8. Climate Change and Extreme Weather Events

The intensification of climate change is leading to more frequent and severe weather events, such as heatwaves and smog episodes, which exacerbate air pollution levels. These environmental changes are prompting consumers to seek solutions like air purifiers to mitigate the adverse effects of deteriorating air quality.

Conclusion