2,000 masks to protect cops from pollution

Nikhil Bhardwaj

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, November 16

Finally, the Ludhiana Police Commissionerate have started thinking about the health of its staff. It has provided policemen with masks to protect them from respiratory ailments caused by smog and air pollution in the city.

Usually, the police are seen discharging duty without wearing masks despite pollution hitting alarming levels in the city. Smog caused by stubble burning has led to an increase in the number of patients suffering from asthma, breathing problems and burning sensation in eyes.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Dhruman Nimbale said traffic and PCR police were exposed to smog caused by stubble burning and industrial/vehicular pollution which caused various respiratory diseases.

“We have distributed as many as 2,000 masks to the traffic and PCR police personnel. They have been told to wear these masks, so they do not fall prey to respiratory diseases. Apart from the traffic and PCR police, these masks have also been given to the staff of police stations, including those in Division No. 1, 2, 4, 7, Dugri, Model Town, Shimlapuri, Focal Point, Meharban, Moti Nagar, Daba, Dehlon, PAU, Sadar Salem Tabri, Jodhewal and Haibowal,” the DCP said.

Reduce duty hours to better our health: Cop

A traffic policeman said they had to work for around 10 hours a day managing traffic in summers and winter. “It is a good step that we have been provided with masks. But senior officials should also fix our duty hours. We are working for 10 or 11 hours a day, which is affecting our health more than pollution. We hope one day, seniors will ponder over this suggestion as well,” he added.