KOCHI: The ongoing Metro Rail construction is not only causing widespread traffic chaos in the city, but is perhaps responsible for increase in air pollution and cases of respiratory ailments over the last two years.
While no specific survey has been carried out to check the extent of damage on the ambient air quality caused by the Metro works, doctors in hospitals along the Metro corridor confirm that more auto-drivers, Metro workers and those exposed to the dust come with respiratory complaints.
“On an average, more than 30 new patients come to the respiratory OP per day. The number might be higher in private hospitals and other government hospitals in the area. Many patients have been diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis, extra-pulmonary tuberculosis and asthma,” said Dr Anitha Thilakan, assistant professor of Respiratory Medicine at Cochin Medical College.
More cases are being reported from Edappally and Kalamassery, the areas close to the medical college. Apart from dust and pollution, health experts also point out that change in climate is a major reason for poor respiratory health.
“During the last two months, the number of cases was high with many migrant Metro workers coming here for treatment. Since, there is no mechanism to check their earlier respiratory status, the root cause for disease cannot be solely attributed to the construction works,” observed Dr Anitha.
Health experts stress the need to conduct a study to assess the pollution impact of Metro works on the ambient air quality. “Though we have plans to conduct a study among those exposed to heat, dust and Metro works, it is yet to materialize because of staff shortage,” said Dr Anitha.
Metro works coupled with a high level of dust, heat and irregular rains have also caused an increase in the number of eye diseases, it has been observed.
“Dust and minute granite particles enter the eyes while travelling and several regular commuters, bus drivers and traffic wardens along the Metro corridor have complained of eye infection,” said health experts.
