Gurgaon's Southern Peripheral Road Becomes Major Dust Source
Gurgaon residents face a growing environmental challenge as a 2-kilometer stretch of Southern Peripheral Road has transformed into a significant dust bowl. The problem stems from ongoing excavation work that has left one side of the carriageway completely exposed.
Daily Nuisance for Residents
Vehicles traveling along this section kick up thick clouds of dust throughout the day. The excavated side runs parallel to the main road, featuring loose soil, rubble, and broken road edges scattered across the surface. This uneven terrain forces drivers to slow down and change lanes frequently.
Residents living along the corridor report the dust has become an everyday problem. Mona Gulati, a resident of Tulip Violet, describes the situation clearly. "By evening, you can see a layer of dust on balconies and window sills. We clean it and it comes back within hours," she explains.
Visible Pollution and Safety Concerns
The exposed earth creates visible dust clouds that hang low over the road, especially behind moving vehicles. This phenomenon raises serious accident risks during heavy traffic periods. The excavated section has effectively narrowed the usable carriageway, pushing vehicles dangerously close to the unpaved area.
Commuters experience significant discomfort while navigating this stretch. Deepak Mishra, who travels daily toward Golf Course Extension Road, shares his experience. "It feels like driving through a dust cloud. If a truck passes, you can't see clearly for a few seconds," he states.
Health Impacts and Medical Concerns
Dr. Nevin Kishore, Senior Consultant and Head of Bronchoscopy at Max Hospital Gurgaon, outlines the serious health implications. People living near dusty roads face continuous exposure to fine particulate matter that can lead to chronic respiratory problems.
"Long-term exposure can lead to chronic cough, breathlessness, asthma exacerbations, allergic rhinitis, bronchitis and a gradual decline in lung function," Dr. Kishore warns. He emphasizes that children and elderly individuals face particular vulnerability due to their developing or compromised respiratory systems.
The doctor also notes that individuals may experience frequent throat irritation, eye discomfort, headaches, and recurrent respiratory infections. Those with pre-existing conditions like asthma, COPD, heart disease, diabetes, or weakened immunity face higher risks of flare-ups and hospitalization.
Peak Hour Problems
The situation worsens significantly during peak traffic hours. Raveena Mehra, a resident of a high-rise along SPR, describes the intensified problem. "The traffic keeps kicking up dust continuously. Even inside the car, you can feel it. For two-wheelers, it's really bad," she reports.
Pollution Control Challenges
An official from the Haryana State Pollution Control Board confirms that road dust remains a major contributor to poor air quality in the city. The official states that road dust, unmanaged solid waste, and instances of open burning continue to significantly impact urban air quality.
The board has requested the corporation to immediately strengthen several measures:
- Increase mechanical sweeping operations
- Improve waste lifting procedures
- Enhance on-ground enforcement
These actions aim to create visible improvements on affected roads throughout Gurgaon.
Expert Recommendations for Protection
Dr. Kishore suggests several precautions for those affected by the dust pollution:
- Wear N95 masks when outdoors
- Keep windows closed during peak dust hours
- Use air purifiers indoors
- Maintain good hydration levels
With heavy traffic continuing on SPR throughout the day, the exposed stretch acts as a persistent dust source. This adds to Gurgaon's existing pollution stress, particularly concerning as winter approaches. During colder months, weak dispersion conditions trap pollutants closer to ground level, exacerbating the problem.
Experts have repeatedly flagged exposed soil and debris from roadwork as persistent sources of PM10 pollution. They emphasize that consistent dust-control measures remain essential. These include regular sprinkling, mechanized sweeping, and quick restoration of excavated areas.
