Residents choked as dust blankets region

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, June 15

The dust blanket covering the region has turned problematic for residents of the city as they felt it unsafe to go out of their homes without covering their faces. Even the local Municipal Corporation kept street lights on near the Gateway of Amritsar at the entrance of the city due to the decreased visibility this morning.

However, the prevailing weather conditions did not affect air traffic at the international airport here. Though cancellation of flights from airports in other cities was reported, officials at Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport here said no flights from the city was cancelled as the airport was recently equipped with CAT-IIIB lighting system which enables aircraft to land or take off in as less as 50-m visibility.

The displaced dust particles in air dimmed the sunlight and the sky seemed partially cloudy throughout the day. Keeping in mind the prevailing weather conditions, the Health Department has advised residents to take precautions.

Civil Surgeon Hardeep Singh Ghai said: “People should take precautions, especially those with respiratory problems and weak immune system. The residents are advised to wear face masks to avoid allergies due to dust.”

He said people should also discontinue early morning walks and heavy exercise till such a weather condition prevails.

The residents complained that dust has covered everything which irritates them. “As the dust settles, it covers everything. It gives a feeling of being trapped in a room filled with dust,” said Kewal Singh, a resident. In several parts of the city, trees covered with dust seemed hazy.

Dr Sandeep Aggarwal, a child specialist with Civil Hospital, said: “Parents should not let their children play out in the open. It may cause uneasiness and other issues.”

He said people should wash their hands and change clothes after coming from outside. The PPCB advisory has stated that as per the Meteorological Department, the western disturbances were approaching the North India and rainfall was expected in a day or two, which will clear the dust.

PPCB issues advisory

• Construction activities, including carpeting of roads, should be stopped. 
• Material such as sand, soil not be carried in open trolleys and trucks.
• Players and walkers should avoid workouts and walks til the situation improves.
• Patients, especially those suffering from asthma and ailments related to heart and eyes must remain inside.
• Parents are advised not to let their children play outside.
• People should not travel to long distances in open trolleys and trucks.