With dry conditions prevailing, dust levels have risen across several parts of Hubballi, and commuters at busy junctions have reported discomfort and breathing difficulties
Dr GB Sattur, physician and diabetologist, Hubballi, said this year’s monsoon has failed in North Karnataka. Without rain, dust from damaged roads, construction sites and dry soil remains suspended in the air, he said. Children, elderly people, two-wheeler riders, traffic police and street vendors face the greatest risk, he said, adding that cases of eye irritation, sneezing and skin dryness are also increasing.
Apart from Kittur Chennamma circle, dust has emerged as a significant problem in several other busy areas. Hosur cross, Bhagat Singh circle, Old Court circle, Sangolli Rayanna circle, Desai cross and Old Hubballi Durgadbail circle are among places where residents have complained of dust, particularly during peak traffic hours when vehicular movement stirs up particles from road surfaces and construction zones. Fine dust particles penetrate deep into the lungs and can trigger asthma, bronchitis and allergies besides worsening existing lung and heart conditions.