In the heart of India's capital, a silent health crisis unfolds daily among the men and women tasked with managing its chaotic streets. Traffic and patrol officers in Delhi are paying a heavy price for their duty, exposed relentlessly to the city's toxic air, leading to severe respiratory problems and other health hazards.
The Invisible Battle on the Streets
For sub-inspector Mohit Tomar, stationed at the busy Teen Murti Marg roundabout, the workday is a grueling mix of chaotic traffic, irate drivers, and a constant assault of toxic fumes. His experience is mirrored by assistant sub-inspector Sheovir, who spends hours on a motorcycle patrol, regardless of how hazardous the Air Quality Index (AQI) becomes. These frontline personnel are the city's unsung heroes, facing abnormal pollution levels that pose severe long-term health risks.
From respiratory ailments to cardiovascular diseases, the threats are numerous and well-documented, noted a retired Delhi Traffic Police chief. The constant exposure to vehicular emissions, particulate matter, and other toxic pollutants on congested roadways is taking a devastating toll. The physical evidence is stark: many traffic cops are frequently seen consuming cough lozenges or toffees for temporary relief from persistent hacking coughs. Some even carry prescribed cough syrups on doctor's advice.
Masks Offer Little Relief from Relentless Exposure
Speaking about the challenges during severe pollution episodes, SI Tomar described the intense discomfort. "Our eyes become irritated and watery," he said. To cope, they keep water jars handy to regularly splash their faces. Another officer added a grim reality: "We wear masks, but they are of little help. The eyes keep stinging through the day and the throat dries up. But we have a job that needs to be done."
ASI Sheovir explained that their primary duty of regulating traffic often requires them to remain stationary, directly in the path of emissions. "As soon as AQI surpasses the 300 mark, we don face masks. The severe pollution often triggers coughing fits," he stated, confirming that while masks are provided, they are insufficient against the onslaught. Senior officers maintain regular contact to monitor their well-being, and personnel patrol in shifts using foot, motorcycle, and vehicle patrols, yet they remain completely exposed.
Administrative Measures and Hope for Change
In response to the crisis, the Delhi traffic police brass has implemented strategic changes. Deployment has been increased at key intersections to allow personnel to work in shorter, rotating shifts, minimizing continuous exposure. Those who develop respiratory or other health issues are reassigned to other duties during periods of abnormally high pollution, a move inspired by studies, including one conducted in Kolkata, which recommended such roster systems.
Special Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Ajay Choudhary has instructed personnel to consistently wear masks and consume warm water. The department has also initiated yoga classes to promote physical and mental well-being. Another senior officer revealed a proactive health approach: "We have asked the boots-on-the-ground to identify early symptoms like excessive coughing so preventive action can be taken."
The duty brings non-health challenges too, like dealing with aggressive motorists who violate anti-pollution rules under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Officers must patiently educate such drivers about the regulations. For many, the current scenario is a distressing déjà vu of the Covid-19 pandemic, where road patrolling was both crucial and a significant health hazard. Like then, Delhi's police force can only hope for cleaner air and better conditions soon.
