Punjab has been a powerhouse of facing adversities and emerging stronger and better, each time. The scenario has changed today. These are not attacks by people, but ignorant and, sometimes wilful, impacts created by people to the air quality, endangering the health of the residents of Punjab. The venomous air we get to breathe has put the lives of urban and rural Punjab in escalated pedestal which we all need to catch and mitigate on an emergent basis.
As Punjab grapples with the escalating crisis of air pollution and its profound impact on public health, it is imperative for Doctors to take proactive measures that prepare multiple stakeholders for a united front against this pressing issue. In crafting a comprehensive strategy, Doctors in Punjab can play a pivotal role by adopting the P-U-N-J-A-B way – a prescription for tangible action points that can pave the way for collective efforts and sustainable solutions.
P – Public Awareness Campaigns: Doctors should spearhead robust public awareness campaigns to educate communities about the health risks associated with air pollution. By leveraging their expertise, Doctors can communicate the specific threats posed by pollutants prevalent in Punjab, emphasizing the link between air quality and respiratory ailments. Utilizing local media, community events, and educational initiatives, Doctors can empower residents to recognize the gravity of the situation and take informed steps to protect their health.
U – Unified Advocacy and Actions: Unity is paramount in addressing the complex issue of air pollution. Doctors must form alliances and collaborate with environmental organizations, community leaders, and public health advocates to collectively advocate for stricter regulations and enforcement. By presenting a unified front, the medical community can amplify its influence on policymakers, ensuring that decisions align with the health needs of the population and address the root causes of air pollution.
N – Nurturing Research: Doctors in Punjab should actively contribute to and support research initiatives focused on understanding the local dynamics of air pollution. By fostering collaborations with research institutions and environmental agencies, Doctors can generate valuable data that informs evidence-based policies and interventions. This commitment to research will not only enhance the medical community’s understanding of the issue but also facilitate targeted solutions tailored to Punjab’s unique challenges.
J – Joint Health Camps: Organizing joint health camps in collaboration with healthcare professionals, NGOs, and local authorities is a practical step to address immediate health concerns stemming from air pollution. These camps can offer free health check-ups, distribute protective gear, and provide guidance on mitigating personal exposure. By reaching out directly to affected communities, Doctors can bridge the gap between medical expertise and the day-to-day health needs of the people. Multiple medical associations can play a vital role in hosting and promoting such events.
A – Alternative Lifestyle Initiatives: Clean air is a human right. Air quality needs to be woven into the lifestyle of every citizen of Punjab. Transportation is one of the major contributor to air pollution in Punjab. Doctors can champion initiatives promoting alternative and sustainable transportation methods. Collaborating with local governments and advocacy groups, Doctors can endorse cycling lanes, public transportation improvements, and incentives for electric vehicles. By actively participating in transportation-related policy discussions, Doctors can influence changes that significantly reduce vehicular emissions. Similar actions can be tried for plastic usage, greenery, waste-disposal etc.
B – Being a role model: Mahatma Gandhi said, “We must become the change we want to see.” People will follow the leadership demonstrated by the Doctors. This includes advocating for responsible waste disposal, discouraging the burning of agricultural residues, promoting energy-efficient household practices etc. By addressing the root causes of pollution at the individual level, Doctors can instigate a cultural shift towards sustainable living.
P-U-N-J-A-B way is a collective way forward. While Doctors may initiate it, this forms the basic grundnorm for every citizen of Punjab. The time for action is now, and by embracing these strategic initiatives, Doctors can serve as catalysts for positive change, ultimately alleviating the burden of air pollution on the health and well-being of the people of Punjab. Guru Nanak Dev ji guided us “Pawan Guru, Pani Pita, Mata Dharat Mahat…”. It’s time to work the prescription. P-U-N-J-A-B is for now.
Dr. P S Bakhshi, National Core Committee Member, Doctors for Clean Air and Climate Action, Lung Care Foundation
Rajiv Khurana, Founder – Trustee, Lung Care Foundation
