Air Pollution Concerns Raised As Workers In Mosta Spotted Blasting Dust
As the seemingly never-ending works continue in Mosta, workers have been seen removing the dust from Mosta Bridge by blasting it with compressed air.
This comes amidst concerns about air quality in Malta as the construction boom and traffic congestion have contributed to some of the highest asthma rates in Europe.
Independent candidate Arnold Cassola has often expressed concern about the effect of particulate matter or very fine dust arising from excessive construction and its effects on the lungs. Blasting dust into the air in this way serves to exacerbate matters.
“Mosta… clean air for you,” he sarcastically said as he shared an image of the works in progress.
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, fine particles (PM2.5) pose the greatest health risk. These fine particles can get deep into lungs and some may even get into the bloodstream. Exposure to these particles can affect a person’s lungs and heart.
“Exposure to particle pollution can result in increased hospital admissions, emergency room visits, absences from school or work, and restricted activity days, especially for those with pre-existing heart or lung disease, older people, and children.”
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