write a letter in the topic that the problem of air pollution due to the increased traffic in our locality
Answers
As PM2.5 and PM10 levels continue to rise several times above the safe level in Indian cities and towns, people have started using masks of various kinds to protect themselves from poor air quality. Cyclists, pedestrians, traffic cops and even metro train commuters have graduated to masks from scarves and handkerchiefs in the hope that these devices will guard their lungs. But do masks really work?
The primary function of masks is to filter out certain particles from the air. For effective protection, it is important to wear a well-fitting mask of the correct size, which covers the nose, mouth and chin completely without leaving any gaps.
But masks don’t block everything toxic in the air. They may protect the wearer against particulate matter but are ineffective against nitrates, sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, lead and other gaseous pollutants. Different pollutants cause different reactions in the human body, and respiratory diseases are only one of the many ailments.
Masks of greater complexity and effectiveness are available (See ‘Masks: Do they really work?’), but even these are stop-gap solutions. N95 masks cost more than Rs 50 and a single mask can be used for only two to three days. Even the more expensive N99 masks last for no more than four to six months.