Coimbatoreans get to breathe some clean air
If a recent survey is to go by, the quality of air in Coimbatore has improved in the last two years, despite the rapid growth and development. The survey conducted by the Union ministry of environment, forest and climate that includes the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB), says that particulate matter in the air has come down in 2013 and 2014 when compared to 2012. CT talks to environmentalists in the city to find out what needs to be done to breathe easier.
Mohammad Saleem of Environment Conservation Group says that its time this data is made accessible to the public. “Air quality should be monitored 24/7 and both during day and night, using the latest equipment. Now that we are all set to become a smart city, it’s essential that quality of air and water improves and the public plays an active role in it. Right from students, environmentalists, homemakers, authorities to the general public, all of us should take up the responsibility of the environment. With some effective authorities at the helm of affairs in the district, who are passionate towards environment, and a little bit of help from the public, Coimbatore can go a long way in becoming a model city.”
Environmentalist K Mohanraj says that a clearer picture would be out if they monitor the number of people suffering from air-borne diseases in the city. “Health and scientific data are vital to compare the levels of pollution in different time periods. A case in point is the tremendous rise in people suffering from respiratory ailments when the Mettupalayam Road was being widened. There were many who suffered from eye problems as well. Though I have not gone through the data myself, I believe one of the reasons could be the shifting of foundries to the outskirts of the city that were the major polluters almost a decade ago.”
According to Coimbatore Nature Society president PR Selvaraj, the public can go a long way in contributing to the improvement in air quality. “All one has to do is plant some shrubs in their locality, if not a tree. If we leave a little bit of space for the earth for greenery, and not a complete concrete jungle, it can improve the quality of air. Herbal garden and solid waste management can contribute to the cause as well.”
Mohanraj doles out a few suggestions. “People can try using the public transport as much as possible, or pedal away or go on foot to places nearby. The number of vehicles on the road has increased drastically and it’s time their pollution emissions are monitored strictly. Quality of the vehicles plays a crucial role in preventing drastic damage to the environment. Coimbatore can also follow the Delhi model of CNG (compressed natural gas) -powered public transport.” Mohammad Saleem says it’s time the public took onus of the environment. “They have to raise their voice when an issue comes up. Even if they cannot plant trees, they should speak up when they see a tree being cut down or plastic being burnt.”
