Kashmir races against time to stop a seasonal allergies

Ishfaq Tantry

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, April 15

Racing against time, the authorities in Kashmir have intensified the drive to cut female Russian poplars, which are the primary source of pollen-induced allergy in the region during spring season.

As it is feared that pollen-induced allergy may exaggerate the spread of Covid, as both have similar symptoms, like running nose and sore throat, the authorities across Kashmir have roped in Panchayat members to percolate the message about felling of female Russian poplars.

Though pollen allergies are common in this region during spring, the allergy induced by the pollen of varieties of poplar imported from Russia, Australia and the US have turned into a perennial health hazard.

The High Court, which is hearing a PIL on measures to prevent spread of coronavirus, has also sought an action taken report (ATR) by or before April 10 from the authorities, with directions to Secretary Health and Medical Education to get the issue of poplar-induced pollen allergy examined after the Bench was told that the pollen allergy may aggravate respiratory diseases. As the order about felling of these trees already stands issued by the High Court in 2015, the deputy commissioners concerned have issued fresh directions in this regard, with many DCs having given 10 days to people to cut down these trees or face action.

In many villages, announcements are being made by Panchayat members urging people to comply with orders to cut down these trees.

Populus deltoides is the culprit

Though scores of poplar trees have been cut down across the Valley since 2015, when it first caught the attention of courts, experts have identified Populus deltoides, a female variety of the exotic poplar, which produces pollen with a lot of cotton fluff and is responsible for the allergy. It remains in the air for 20-25 days.

Symptoms of pollen-induced allergy

“Pollen allergy is a seasonal health hazard in Kashmir during spring. The symptoms range from nasal irritation or burning to watery eyes coupled with redness and skin rashes,” said Dr Jehangir, a Kashmir-based paediatrician.

Experts warn that the condition may get exaggerated in asthma patients, advising people prone to pollen allergies to wear masks and avoid direct contact with pollen or dust.

It is feared that people in Kashmir may mistake it for coronavirus symptoms if proper medical advice is not sought by the affected persons.