Every third traffic cop in Delhi has severe respiratory illnesses, according to a study
Every third traffic cop in Delhi has severe respiratory illnesses, according to a six-month study. It highlighted that 33 percent of traffic policemen in the Capital were found vulnerable to severe health issues. The study was carried out in two city hospitals in Delhi and policemen from each traffic circle were sent for health checkups.
Around 200 police officials participated in the check-up and they were diagnosed with asthma, lung congestion, throat irritation and thick sputum.
Around 23 per cent of them were diagnosed with stress and hypertension, read the sudy. Prolonged exposure to toxic gases like nitrogen oxide (NOx) and sulphur oxide (SOx), which is emitted from vehicles’ tailpipes, is the main reason for lung-related diseases.
Delhi’s rising vehicular population, which is more than 1 crore, is adding to this health crisis. Occupational hazards have made traffic cops’ lives difficult. With harsh weather conditions, increasing dust, pollution, heat and cold, they are at high risk of developing health problems. A large number of policemen were not even aware of their deteriorating health conditions.
The traffic department is distributing pollution masks to traffic officials and transfers vulnerable officials to address this issue. Experts suggest monetary benefits and regular transfers of officials working in high-pollution zones.
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