At a time when Ludhiana is battling hazardous air pollution due to Diwali celebrations and stubble burning, anti-smog guns purchased by the municipal corporation (MC) to combat air pollution have been gathering dust at the MC workshops at Dholewal chowk and Hambran.
All three patients are now stable and their condition is under control. “People should use green firecrackers instead of conventional ones.
Dr Akhil Sareen, senior medical officer (SMO) of the civil hospital, said three patients with respiratory complaints were brought to the emergency ward on Diwali night including two men and a woman. Dr Ashish Chawla, a pulmonologist, said respiratory cases increased during Diwali as extremely high Air Quality Index (AQI) levels pose serious health risks, particularly to people with existing respiratory diseases, the elderly and children. He said stubble burning further contributes to air pollution worsening the situation and creating additional health hazards for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Patients with respiratory ailments should take proper precautions and continue their prescribed medication,” he said, adding that the government should take preventive measures well in advance as the rise in pollution during this season is anticipated every year.
