Bheega Bheega Sa December: Fighting Smog with Short-Term Solutions
Drawing lessons from the steps taken by the Indian Government, implementing measures such as a ban on private cars and introducing an Odd-Even rule. This involves allowing vehicles with odd-numbered license plates in the city for one week and even-numbered plates in the following week. Closure of schools and universities, repurposing their buses for public transport.
We are currently facing a severe environmental crisis in Lahore and Delhi, marked by an unprecedented drop in air quality. Anticipated health risks include asthma, multiple organ damage, severe lung damage leading to respiratory failures, and even the potential for cancer.
Possible Solutions for Fighting Smog, to safeguard yourself and your family, consider the following precautions:
- Wear N99 masks consistently when outdoors, as they can filter 99% of micropollutants. Standard dust masks do not effectively filter PM 2.5. It is recommended to use specialized masks like 3M N95 and N99 types, capable of filtering 99% of PM 2.5.
- Stay hydrated to help flush toxins out of your system and provide oxygen to your organs.
- Avoid strenuous cardio exercises that demand heavy oxygen intake, as this may lead to increased toxin intake. Avoiding outdoor activities, especially sports that increases the rate of inhalation.
- Opt for a vegetable-based diet over meat, as vegetables require less oxygen for metabolism.
- Invest in air purifiers for your homes to reduce indoor pollution. Sencor Air Purifiers are now available, presenting an effective solution for smog and polluted air. For inquiries and purchases, contact Umair Vehra at +92 322 4975938.
- Place Aloe vera and Spider Plants indoors, as they absorb air pollutants.
- Practice indoor yoga with slow and controlled breathing to maximize oxygen supply to your organs.
- Carry inhalers approved by your doctor, even if you don’t have asthma.
- If possible, keep your children at home and avoid sending them to school without precautions.
- Visit your doctor immediately if you develop dust allergies or respiratory symptoms, and take coughs and flu seriously during this smoggy period.
- Avoid wearing contact lenses outdoors, as they increase the risk of eye infections. Instead, wear glasses and regularly clean your eyes.
The transformation of Lahore’s seasons from the nostalgic “Bheega Bheega Sa December” to a winter marked by rainless days and thick smog underscores the urgency of addressing air quality concerns.
