By maryam Diallo
Residents and Travelers Along Kaduna Bypass Urge Contractors to Control Dust During Harmattan
Residents and travelers along the Kaduna Bypass have called on the road contractors to take steps to reduce the dust that is spreading across the area, especially during the ongoing Harmattan season.
They suggest that spraying water on the sandy roads could help minimize dust in the air.
Climate and environmental journalists in Kaduna State, northwestern Nigeria, have been receiving numerous complaints from residents and commercial drivers.
These individuals have voiced concerns about the impact of the dust on their health and the environment, urging road contractors to address the issue during this dry season.
In interviews with residents of the Danbushiya community and Bakin Ruwa (names withheld), many expressed appreciation for both the state and federal governments’ efforts in improving the roads, which they believe will boost transportation in the region.
However, they also appealed to contractors to regularly spray water on the dusty roads to reduce the amount of dust in the air, particularly during Harmattan winds.
“We are grateful to both the federal and state governments for the road construction project, as it will greatly improve transportation in the state and the region as a whole,” said one local resident. “While the construction is progressing well, we would like it to be completed faster.
In the meantime, we ask that contractors spray water on the roads to control the dust .”
The residents also highlighted the health risks posed by the dust, which affects not only their breathing but also their overall well-being.
They called on contractors to take immediate action to prevent the spread of harmful dust particles throughout the community.
Comrade Ibrahima Yakubu, Head of Communications and Strategy at African Climate Reporters in Nigeria, confirmed that they have been receiving multiple complaints from local residents and motorists about the dust.
“Many people have reached out to us, asking that contractors spray water on the sandy surfaces to prevent dust from blowing into the air, especially during the Harmattan season,” Yakubu said.
While praising the federal government for the quality of the road project, Yakubu stressed that addressing the dust issue should be a priority in order to protect the public’s health and the environment.
A scientist from African Climate Reporters noted that dust is linked to a variety of health problems, including respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis, as well as cardiovascular issues. Dust particles, which are often less than 50 microns in diameter, can be harmful when suspended in the air and transported by wind.
These small particles are not only a threat to human health but also pose risks to transportation, renewable energy systems, and the environment.
“Airborne dust is not just a health concern; it also disrupts transportation on land, sea, and air, damages renewable energy systems, and can carry toxic substances,” the scientist explained. “This is why it’s crucial to manage dust exposure, particularly during the Harmattan season.”
The expert also recommended that people cover food items during Harmattan to prevent contamination from the dust.
In conclusion, dust is not only an environmental nuisance but also a significant health and safety hazard.
Experts are calling on contractors and authorities to take necessary steps to control dust in order to safeguard public health and the environment.
They applauded the effort of all stakeholders on the road project as they calls for speed actions towards finishing the projects on time to boost transportation system in the state and the region in general
