We must up awareness on air pollution hazards

This picture has been used for representational purpose

Rampant garbage burning along the highways in Mumbai, Thane and Raigad is posing a huge threat to people's health. A survey by Awaaz Foundation to measure PM2.5 at some of these sites has found that pollution levels had a direct relation with the size of the garbage dump being burnt. A dump at Bhiwandi showed the highest level of PM2.5.

Air pollution is measured by quantifying total suspended Particulate Matter identified by the size of the particles. PM2.5 are minute particles having a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or smaller. These particles contain a mixture of solids and liquids and include acids such as sulfates and nitrates, ammonium, carbon and mineral dust.

This paper has reported Awaaz Foundation finding that in the absence of adequate municipal systems for disposal, heaps of garbage lining roadsides is a common sight in Maharashtra, and burning it is the easiest form of disposal. The Foundation said that burning plastic is especially toxic and can cause respiratory disease.

We need immediate redressal of this problem, given the large-scale ramifications on health. While this report concentrated on garbage burning on highways, we have occasionally witnessed rubbish being burnt on roadside kerbs, outside housing colonies and in nooks and corners. Strict penalties need to be levied by the BMC on offenders. Signage warning against disposing of garbage in this way must be put at public places.

Overall awareness about the hazardous nature of this burning which has, unfortunately, become all too familiar, will help. Factor in also that we live in a city with a very high vehicular density. That itself is one cause for high pollution levels. This only compounds an already difficult and very challenging health situation. Increase responsible disposable capacity and stamp out this menace completely.