MANSI BHAMBRI/Dehradun
The doctors said that with felling of trees throughout the State, particularly in Dehradun, has led to a rise in breathing problems and other health issues among local residents. It is worth highlighting that since the formation of Uttarakhand, thousands of hectares of land have reportedly been designated for non-forest uses. In light of these concerns, doctors stressed the need for authorities to ensure that whenever a tree is removed for development purposes in one area, a replacement tree should be planted in another location to help safeguard future generations from potential health risks.
Managing director of Combined Medical Institute (CMI), Dr RK Jain said that he has observed that over the past decade, there has been a noticeable rise in respiratory issues, including breathing problems among local residents. He attributed this rise primarily to the deforestation occurring over time. The reduction in tree cover has led to decreased oxygen production, while vehicle emissions have contributed to the rise in general breathing difficulties. Jain said that a 25 to 30 per cent rise in breathing problems has been observed over the last 10 years. Currently, these issues are more prevalent among the elderly, but there is also recognition that around 20 per cent of these conditions are increasingly affecting younger individuals. To mitigate future problems, he recommended that while progress is essential, authorities should ensure that for every tree cut down, a replacement is planted.
In addition to this, at both the state and national levels, awareness campaigns should be launched to encourage citizens to take responsibility for promoting greenery, which will lead to positive health outcomes, he stated.
Physician at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay District Hospital, Dr Praveen Panwar said that the reduction of trees has caused a rise in temperatures, resulting in a rise in heat stroke incidents among the population. He also said that over the past decade, there has been a noticeable increase in infections and breathing problems among residents of Dehradun, with the elderly and children being the most affected groups. In light of this, authorities need to prioritise afforestation and the planting of additional trees. Additionally, he emphasised that citizens should take responsibility for promoting greenery and adopting healthy diets and adequate water intake to remain fit and healthy, he said.
