Cement roads, construction dust, pollution responsible for present health problems: Study

Nagpur: A study by the pulmonology department of KRIMS Hospital claims that the increase in the number of patients visiting OPDs and emergencies with severe cough, cold, throat irritation, difficulty in breathing, and exacerbation of respiratory symptoms, particularly during December, January, and February, is due to exposure to road dust, construction dust and increase in the level of air pollution.

“People in Nagpur are facing significant air pollution challenges due to many factors, including industrial activities, vehicular traffic, building, and road constructions, etc,” states the study.

“This particular period is known for bad Air Quality Index (AQI), which means increased level of air pollution. We have data from National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (Neeri) and Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) to back this,” said Dr Ashok Arbat, a veteran pulmonologist under whose guidance this observational study was conducted.

The hospital reported increase in the number of admissions and OPD visits during the last 45 days, especially in areas where AQI was high — ranging between 140 and 210. Asthma and COPD exacerbation was also reported.

“During OPD visits, most of the patients’ history suggested exposure to road dust, construction dust, and air pollution,” said Dr Arbat.

According to the study, cement roads and building construction activities tend to produce more noise and vibrations than other types of roads. “Cement roads and other building materials absorb and retain heat from the sunlight, leading to higher temperatures in cities. This can further exacerbate air pollution by increasing the formation of ground-level ozone and other pollutants,” said Dr Arbat.

Fine particles of construction dust (particulate matter) can be inhaled deep into the lungs and cause inflammation and irritation. Chemical emissions from construction sites such as paints, solvents and adhesives can emit volatile organic compounds, which can highly irritate the respiratory system, he added.

At present, cement road construction is under way in two busiest parts of the city — Ramdaspeth and Amravati Road. Doctors have advised people having cough and congestion to wear mask to stay safe.

TRAP:

The study has a detailed discussion on Traffic-Related Air Pollution (TRAP). “Not just old but new vehicles also contribute to air pollution. Exposure to vehicular exhaust fumes can have significant health problems, particularly for people who live in nearby areas. Children, elderly, and those having existing health conditions are more vulnerable to negative effect of pollution. TRAP affects through oxidative stress and damage, inflammation and remodelling of airways and also increases sensitization to allergens,” it states.

To minimize health problems

-Use public transportation, especially Metro in Nagpur
-Adopt cleaner technologies like watering plants, roads etc
-Wear mask as dust particles can travel till lungs
-Meditate as environmental changes can also have negative impact on mental health
-Don’t neglect throat and nose irritation, skin diseases, irritation in eyes, headache etc