Major hospitals in Ludhiana are facing a severe health emergency as the number of patients battling critical respiratory problems has doubled in recent weeks. Medical professionals are sounding the alarm, attributing this sharp spike to a dangerous mix of freezing temperatures and poisonous fumes released from the illegal burning of waste materials across the city.
Hospital Wards Filling Up With Respiratory Patients
The situation at Ludhiana's leading medical facilities is becoming critical. Wards at the Civil Hospital and Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMCH) are operating at near capacity, primarily filled with patients suffering from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Specialists report a staggering 100% increase in such cases over a short period.
At the Civil Hospital, the Department of Medicine is now handling a dramatic rise in daily COPD admissions. Where they typically saw seven or eight cases a day, they are now managing up to 20 patients daily. The trend is mirrored at DMCH, where Dr. Akashdeep Singh, Head of Pulmonary Medicine, revealed that approximately 40% of all current respiratory admissions are linked to COPD.
"We are currently managing around 40 patients with respiratory issues, and severe cases are requiring ventilation," Dr. Singh stated. He emphasized that while smokers and the elderly remain the most vulnerable groups, the current environmental conditions are severely impacting individuals with no prior history of tobacco use.
The Deadly Mix of Cold and Toxic Fumes
Doctors identify the primary culprit as a "deadly concoction" of winter chill and severe air pollution. The cold weather, combined with a toxic smog layer, is causing an "acute exacerbation"—a sudden and severe worsening—of respiratory symptoms in patients.
Chest specialist Dr. Jagdeep Whig pinpointed the illegal burning of dry leaves and industrial waste, including rubber tires, as a major aggravating factor. "This burning adds toxic fumes into the air which are far more harmful than regular dust," Dr. Whig explained. He noted that the resulting pollution is triggering intense and painful coughing bouts far more severe than usual.
Public Outcry and Health Advisory
The escalating health crisis has ignited anger among Ludhiana's residents, who are demanding strict enforcement of pollution laws. Local resident Kuldeep Singh voiced the community's frustration, saying, "Elderly people and children are suffering because individuals are setting fire to heaps of leaves and toxic waste." Under National Green Tribunal (NGT) rules, open burning of garbage or leaves can result in an on-the-spot fine of Rs 5,000, with larger violations carrying the threat of imprisonment under the Air Act.
To protect themselves, health experts have issued a clear advisory for the public, especially vulnerable groups:
- Avoid High-Pollution Zones: Steer clear of areas with visible smog or active waste burning.
- Limit Morning/Night Exposure: Pollutants settle near the ground during early morning and late night hours. High-risk individuals should stay indoors during these times.
- Mask Up: Use a high-filtration mask (like an N95) when going into crowded or hazy outdoor areas.
- Maintain Warmth: Keep the body well-covered and avoid sudden exposure to cold air.
- Seek Early Intervention: Consult a doctor immediately at the first sign of persistent breathlessness, chest pain, or a worsening cough.
The combination of plummeting winter temperatures and man-made toxic smog has created a perfect storm for respiratory illness in Ludhiana, pushing its healthcare system to the brink and calling for urgent action from both authorities and the public.
