The Bhutanese Leading the way.
With growing concerns over forest fires and air pollution, residents of Thimphu are facing a difficult decision when it comes to purchasing air purifiers. Despite the rising pollution levels caused by frequent forest fires, air purifier sales in the capital city have remained low due to lack of awareness and price.
The issue began to surface more prominently in recent years, particularly during the dry season when forest fires are more frequent. The fires release large amounts of smoke and particulate matter into the air, leading to poor air quality. As a result, there have been growing health concerns among the population, especially for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
Thimphu, the capital city, has been particularly affected due to its geographical location and the concentration of its population. While rural areas are also experiencing the impact of forest fires, the dense population in urban centers makes Thimphu a hotspot for air pollution. During the forest fire season, the air quality in the city has often reached hazardous levels, causing discomfort and health issues for many residents.
The rise in air pollution is taking a toll on people’s health, particularly children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions such as asthma and heart disease. Schools have reported increased absences due to respiratory illnesses, while hospitals have seen a rise in patients suffering from smoke-related ailments.
One of the few stores in Thimphu that sells air purifiers, Dawa Store has reported that sales have remained the same as last year. The store only orders about 4 to 5 air purifiers at a time due to their high price. This limited demand has led to minimal stock and slow turnover, despite the growing need for cleaner air.
In addition to this, raising awareness about the health risks associated with poor air quality could help shift public perception. By educating residents about the long-term benefits of using air purifiers, more people may recognize their value beyond the initial cost and make healthier choices for themselves and their families.
Furthermore, local businesses could explore offering more affordable models or flexible payment options to widen their customer base. As for the larger environmental issue, both governmental and non-governmental organizations are urged to focus on better forest fire prevention measures and stricter regulations to reduce the frequency and impact of these seasonal disasters.
