Pollution skyrockets in Thane: study

Among the worst-affected areas are Malhar Chowk, Ambedkar Chowk, Hari Niwas (Naupada), Shivaji Chowk (Kalwa), Almeida Chowk and Majji Wada Chowk. The levels of carbon monoxide, sulphur di-oxide, nitrogen oxide, soot lead, cadmium and sound levels are also higher than those prescribed as the minimum permissible levels by the World Health Organisation.

These compounds can cause high blood pressure, brain damage, tuberculosis, various cancers, osteoporosis, asthma, migraine, cough, eye problems, deafness and respiratory diseases.

At busy intersections like Shivaji Chowk (13,423 vehicles), Ambedkar Chowk (18,910) Malhar Chowk (16,245), Majiwada Chowk (29,559) Mulund Check naka (13,450) and Kopri (3,188), the emissions from diesel and petrol are highest. Vehicular pollution coupled with Thane’s proximity to the Thane-Belapur industrial belt explains why Thane is is covered by smog 14 hours a day for at least eight months a year. The steady rise in population, up to 15 lakh, and a flawed model of development are also being touted as responsible for the alarming scenario.

The biggest culprit seems to be the increase in the number of vehicles, up to 3,00,000. The number of two-wheelers has increased twelve-fold, cars and jeeps six-fold, autorickshaws ten-fold, private buses ten-fold, trucks five-fold and MSRTC and TMT buses doubled in the last 15 years, says the study.

Among the suggestions to combat pollution are: replacement of old and defective engines, use of catalytic convertors in petrol-driven vehicles, ensuring that diesel vehicles comply with PUC test requirements, traffic discipline, stricter laws and increased fines for defaulters, control and stoppage of vehicular movements in crowded areas, no new permits for autos, and enforcement of PCB directives by both the RTO and the traffic police.