Dusty roads an eyesore for city motorists

HYDERABAD: With hundreds of vehicles plying on bumpy streets, seemingly ceaseless dust storms are being witnessed on every stretch.It is not uncommon for those riding motorcycles to rush to the restroom to wash their faces due to burning eyes after completing their journey.Besides, the increasing pollution level is also adding to the problem. Ophthalmologists at government eye hospitals revealed most bike and auto-rickshaw drivers are visiting regularly with eye infections.Most of them have been affected by regular dust storms, taking place at every major road in the city.“If I do not wear glasses or helmet, I cannot ride my bike.The eye irritation increases due to dust storms after heavy rains,” complained S Prabukumar, a marketing executive.Most streets have been damaged after the incessant rains and motorists are having a tough time negotiating the stretches at Punjagutta, Banjara Hills, Ladki-ka-pul, Khairatabad, Jubilee Hills check post, Begumpet, Madhapur, Secunderabad-Bowenpally, Raj Bhavan road, opposite Imax theatre and Nagarjuna circle.Dr C Premprakash Reddy, superintendent, Sarojini Devi Eye Hospital said there has been a sudden increase in patients suffering from seasonal diseases including eye infections. “Most patients suffering from eye infections are bike and auto-rickshaw drivers.On average, we receive at least 15 new cases regarding eye infections, irritations and other seasonal cases.As many as 400 cases were reported in August,” he added. Eye specialists advised motorists to take more precautions as dust particles affect the eyelids which turn itchy and subsequently become puffy and dry.Motorists should wear plain goggles and use commonly available eye drops.“The thin layer of dust that hangs in the air almost through the day is mainly due to dust storms.The problem worsens after it rains. After the stagnant water is discharged into drains, there is a fine layer of dust on the road surface and every passing vehicle makes the dust particles fly continuously,” Premprakash Reddy said.