Peshawar's BRT project, a pain in the chest

Dunya News

The project has resulted in a spike in the number of people affected by chest diseases as reported b

(Dunya News) – Once famous for its flowers and gardens, Peshawar is currently a city polluted with dust due to the ongoing Bus Rapid Transit project that has resulted in a sharp increase in numerous diseases, particularly those relating to chest.

The project has resulted in a spike in the number of people affected by chest diseases as reported by various hospitals in the city.

Due to excessive digging and drilling for the BRT project across the city, dirt remains piled at various locations. Areas close to GT Road including Haji Camp Adda, Gulbahar, Bilal Town, Sikandarpura, Ashraf Road, Khyber Bazaar and other adjoining localities, remain engulfed in dust.


Peshawar

Due to excessive digging and drilling for the BRT project across the city, dirt remains piled at various locations. Photo: Dunya News


Speaking to Dunya News, residents of nearby localities complained of how the increase in dust pollution due to the construction has resulted in an increase in health related issues, posing serious risks for children and the elderly.

According to medical experts, citizens must take precautions to protect themselves from diseases which may be caused due to excessive dust.

Dr. Anila Abbasi, Assistant Professor at the Pulmonology department at the Lady Reading Hospital in Peshawar, said the weather as well as the dust contributed to the increase in patients coming with various complaints, especially those relating to breathing problems.


Peshawar

Peshawar is currently a city polluted with dust due to the ongoing Bus Rapid Transit project. Photo: Dunya News


While the project may take some time before its completion, citizens of Peshawar continue to remain troubled by the construction work and the health risks that stem from it.

For more on this, watch a report by Dunya News below.