As air quality in India’s major cities deteriorates, a growing number of residents are relocating to smaller towns and rural areas to escape toxic pollution. These “pollution refugees” are driven by health concerns and a desire for cleaner environments, leaving behind urban centers like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, where smog and hazardous air have become persistent challenges.
Professionals, retirees, and families are among those moving to locales such as Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Goa’s quieter regions, where air quality is noticeably better. For instance, a Delhi-based IT professional cited recurring respiratory issues as the reason for relocating to a Himalayan foothill town. Similarly, a Mumbai couple moved to a rural area in Maharashtra to protect their young child from chronic air pollution exposure. The Times of India reports that real estate agents in these areas have noted a surge in demand for properties, particularly from urban dwellers seeking respite from polluted city air.
Health experts emphasize the risks of prolonged exposure to poor air quality, including asthma, bronchitis, and heart conditions. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in cities like Delhi often exceeds safe levels, especially during winter, when smog blankets the region. In contrast, smaller towns offer cleaner air, greenery, and a slower pace of life, attracting those prioritizing well-being.
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The trend also reflects broader lifestyle changes. Some migrants are remote workers who no longer need to live in urban hubs, while others are retirees seeking healthier environments. However, this migration raises concerns about infrastructure strain in smaller towns, where resources like water and electricity may not keep pace with growing populations.
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