Residents across Kashmir report rising allergy and respiratory complaints as airborne cotton-like fluff from seasonal trees spreads through homes, schools and public spaces.
Srinagar : The widespread presence of white cotton-like fluff released by seasonal trees across the Kashmir Valley has raised health concerns among residents, many of whom allege that the airborne particles are triggering allergies and respiratory problems in several districts.
Over the past few days, the fluff has been seen drifting across roads, markets, parks, schools and residential areas in different parts of the Valley, particularly during afternoon hours when winds intensify. Residents said the particles often remain suspended in the air for long periods, entering homes, offices and other public spaces.
People from Srinagar, Ganderbal, Budgam, Baramulla, Bandipora, Anantnag and Pulwama districts said children, elderly persons and patients suffering from asthma and other respiratory ailments are among those most affected.
Several residents complained of coughing, sneezing, throat irritation, eye allergies and breathing discomfort, which they attributed to prolonged exposure to the airborne particles. “The fluff spreads rapidly during the day and creates difficulty for many people, especially children and elderly persons. It enters homes, schools and workplaces and remains in the air for hours,” residents from different parts of the Valley said. Residents said the issue has become a recurring seasonal concern in Kashmir, with similar complaints surfacing every year during the spring season when pollen and cotton-like particles from certain trees spread across urban and rural areas alike.They urged the concerned departments, municipal authorities and environmental agencies to take preventive measures, including scientific management of such trees, regular cleaning of public spaces and awareness campaigns aimed at minimising public exposure to allergens.Some residents also called for health advisories in vulnerable areas, saying people suffering from asthma and respiratory illnesses require greater awareness about preventive measures during the season.
Health experts advised people, particularly children, elderly citizens and individuals suffering from respiratory ailments, to avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours, wear masks where necessary, keep windows closed during heavy fluff movement and seek medical attention in case of severe allergic reactions or breathing-related complications.
Experts said that while seasonal pollen and tree fluff are common during this period, prolonged exposure may aggravate existing respiratory conditions in sensitive individuals if adequate precautions are not taken.
