PNS | DEHRADUN
With deterioration in the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Dehradun, there has been an increase in cases of throat irritation, asthma and other ailments among the local populace, the doctors said. The AQI levels in Dehradun have deteriorated over time as a result of heightened pollution from factors such as the increasing number of vehicles, increased tourist footfall, deforestation and other factors. The geography of the valley and lack of rainfall in the post-monsoon season have also contributed to the heightened pollution. Doctors have highlighted that the poor AQI impacts the health of residents, leading to various ailments.
Talking to The Pioneer, physician at the district hospital Dr Praveen Panwar said that since the decline in AQI levels in Dehradun, there has been a rise in cases of throat irritation, persistent cough and other symptoms among individuals who were previously unaffected by asthma or chest conditions. Further, individuals with asthma and other medical conditions are at higher risk of experiencing chest congestion, difficulty breathing and other related issues.
The poor AQI in Dehradun caused by vehicle emissions, population growth and construction activities, is contributing to the prevalence of these ailments among local residents. It was noted that the undesirable AQI particularly impacts individuals during the winter season due to the lack of humidity in the air. To prevent such health problems, people are advised to limit unnecessary outdoor activities, wear N95 masks when outside and use damp handkerchiefs to cover their mouths, he added.
Further, a paediatrician at the district hospital Dr Rohit Thakur observed a rise in cases of respiratory allergies and cough among children over time. He pointed out that while children used to experience coughs for three to five days in the past, the duration has increased with the decrease in AQI levels.
In some instances, it has also been associated with the development of asthma. He attributed the deterioration in AQI to the rising levels of pollution from the increasing number of vehicles, deforestation, influx of tourists during weekends, among other factors. He recommended that in order to prevent this, parents should ensure that their children should consume healthy food to boost their immunity levels and avoid the intake of junk food.
