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As the pollution levels in New Delhi turn for the worse, the demand for fresh air in an “oxygen bar” in India spikes.
The Air Quality Index in India’s capital is in the “severe” category, as per Asian News International’s report via Twitter on Nov. 15. Oxy Pure, an oxygen bar in New Delhi, offers fresh air in a variety of flavors, starting at 299 rupees to 500 rupees (P200 to about P350) for a 15-minute session, DW Business reported on the same day.
“When I checked recently, the air quality index was showing at around 642, which is extremely dangerous for your health,” Oxy Pure owner, Aryavir Kumar was quoted as saying.
The oxygen bubbles through aromatic liquids in different flavors like lemongrass, orange, cinnamon, spearmint, among others. As per report, the effects are still unproven.
“This session helps a lot in that, it detoxifies the body and reduces the impact of pollution of the carbon you’re inhaling. It also energizes the body and makes you feel relaxed,” Aryavir added.
The bar opened only last May, according to France 24 on Nov. 18, and has observed an increased in attendance in recent weeks.
New Delhi has been experiencing a public health crisis as authorities have declared a pollution emergency, The Straits Times reported on Nov. 16. They have since shut down schools and advised infants and the elderly to stay indoors. Citizens have been expressing concern about the commodification of air.
“This is your future India,” journalist Bhupendra Chaubey said on Twitter last Nov. 15.
“‘Pay to breathe.’ Oxygen bar. And if you still don’t [realize] what petty politics/devise politics does to you, you have lost the cause already.” Cha Lino/JB
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