As a first step towards gauging the scale of the problem at hand, the intent is to augment the understanding of the science of air pollution and to assess the impact of pollutants on public health.

The actual risk depends on the person’s current health status, the pollutant type and concentration, and the length of exposure to the polluted air. Those most vulnerable are – Outdoor workers (Traffic Police, Auto/Bus/Taxi Drivers, Street Vendors, Street Sweepers and Construction workers), children under age 14 (whose lungs are still developing), individuals with heart disease, individuals with lung disease, pregnant women and those engaging in outdoor recreational activities (jogging and walking outdoors).

To have a look into the respiratory health of all outdoor workers along with the monitoring of pollution level. Outdoor workers need to be screened and need to wear protective masks to prevent further deterioration of their respiratory health. The aim is to develop ways to mobilise and conduct health tests like the PFT (Pulmonary Function Test) to capture actual impact via a Health Meter and to stimulate dialogue between stakeholders. To also develop new health-impact indicators with a special focus on traffic and reporting on health impacts and related costs.

The project exists from past two years.

Bengaluru Phase – 1

• 235 traffic police personnel in 8 traffic police station were screened from 15th to 19th November, 2016.
• Survey found that 47 (20%) of these individuals had some form of respiratory symptoms. This is much higher than what was found in general population.
• Portable spirometer the instrument used for the lung function testing showed that 72 (31%) had reduced lung functions.

Mangaluru Phase -1

• 115 personnel of 150 strong Mangaluru traffic police force underwent the lung test.
• 3% of the policemen having 5 and lesser years of service showed signs of restrictive lungs.
• 3% Policemen having more than 5 years’ experience showed restrictive lung capacity.

Mangaluru Phase – 2

• 510 drivers were screened and after isolating smokers, 405 drivers from 15 auto rickshaw stands were tested.
• 19% of the auto rickshaw drivers suffer from restrictive lung functioning.
• 46% exhibited obstructive lung functioning.
• Data collected shows that 1/5^th of the total sample population have been adversely affected.