Rising awareness helped in curbing air pollution: Lakshman, KSPCB chairman

Bengaluru: Although, the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) is yet to consolidate the data on pollution levels during this year’s Diwali, its chairman Lakshman said that there was high awareness among the public, which may have resulted in lower pollution levels.

“Schools have played a major role in educating children and from young age, they are learning the hazards of using firecrackers. Many adults too consciously made a choice not to burst crackers. This trend has surely helped in reducing the pollution levels,” Mr Lakshman said.

Mr Lakshman also pointed out that last year’s survey had concluded that Bengaluru ranked second in the list of most polluted cities in India as far as air pollution was concerned.

“As much as 14 per cent of school-going children suffer because of air pollution, the survey had said. Many adults and parents don’t want the city to meet the fate of new Delhi. To prevent respiratory problems and stay away from the toxic fumes, they have chosen not to burst crackers,” Mr Lakshman said.