Residents of Bengaluru are increasingly suffering from eye irritation, allergies, coughing, and respiratory discomfort—ailments that were once seasonal but are now persisting throughout the year. Doctors link this to the alarming rise in PM2.5 and PM10 levels, which have exceeded safe limits, posing significant health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing conditions.
According to Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) officials, vehicle emissions and construction dust are the primary culprits behind this pollution surge. Over the past five years, PM10 levels have risen by 15%, while PM2.5 has increased by 5%. Current measurements show PM10 at 83 µg/m³ and PM2.5 at 37 µg/m³—far above the World Health Organisation’s safe thresholds of 45 µg/m³ and 15 µg/m³, respectively.
Dr. Rajani Surendar Bhat, consultant pulmonologist at SS SPARSH Hospital, warns that prolonged exposure to PM2.5 can lead to chronic lung diseases, weakened immunity, and even premature death. Short-term effects include coughing, throat irritation, and respiratory distress, with an increasing number of hospital admissions linked to pollution-related complications.
Experts fear a surge in chronic illnesses if pollution levels continue rising. Immediate interventions, including stricter regulations on emissions and dust control, are necessary to protect public health.
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