As Bengaluru grapples with alarming levels of dust pollution, the city’s daily commuters have found an unexpected ally—windcheaters. Not just a safeguard against the weather, these garments have become an essential shield against the pervasive dust coating the city’s streets. With growing concerns over air quality and the health impact of road dust, residents are increasingly relying on protective clothing to shield their skin and lungs.
The situation is severe, particularly for the city’s two-wheeler riders. “Every morning, my shirt looks like it survived a dust storm,” said Varun Mehta, a tech professional from Koramangala. “I’ve started carrying a spare windcheater just to keep my work clothes clean.” This sentiment is echoed by many commuters who have found themselves sneezing and coughing their way through daily rides. Anitha Rao, a teacher, shared, “A mask and windcheater have become my survival kit.” The city’s dry weather, combined with extensive construction, has left its roads coated in dust, exacerbating the problem.
Road dust, classified as PM10, has been identified as the primary pollutant in Bengaluru’s air. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has reported that eight out of the city’s 13 air monitoring stations have flagged PM10 as the major pollutant. When the PM10 levels exceed 50 micrograms per cubic meter, the air quality is considered hazardous. According to a senior official from the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB), over 60% of Bengaluru’s air pollution is caused by road dust, with ongoing construction exacerbating the situation.
Health professionals have voiced concerns about the impact of dust on respiratory health. Dr. Darshana Reddy, a senior consultant at Altius Hospital, explained, “Dust particles stay airborne, causing sneezing, coughing, and worsening respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis.” To mitigate these effects, experts recommend better road maintenance, stricter construction regulations, and public awareness about the importance of protective measures, such as wearing N95 masks and windcheaters. Addressing the root cause of Bengaluru’s dust crisis—poor road conditions and construction-related pollution—will be key to protecting the health of its residents.
