By Joey Aguilar/Staff Reporter

Many commuters and motorists in Qatar have expressed concern over the potential health risks posed by thick black smoke emitted by some vehicles on Doha's roads.

Observing that the number of smoke-belching vehicles continues to increase, they have sought the intervention of the authorities concerned to address the issue.

An area manager of a leading garments chain in the country told Gulf Times that he often sees "five to seven" such vehicles along the stretch (Rawdat Al Khail Street) that connects the Industrial Area with D-Ring Road in the morning.

“You feel uncomfortable whenever these speeding smoke-belching vehicles cross your path,” he said. He was advised by a friend (who is a doctor) to switch off the car’s air-conditioner (AC) to prevent the black smoke from entering his car.

“You can imagine carbon monoxide getting into the car through the AC and being inhaled by us and our young children,” said a nurse who usually drives her family down to malls and parks to spend the weekend. “We may not notice it but I am sure it can harm our respiratory system.”

The nurse believes that delivery boys, particularly those riding motorbikes and cycles, and commuters who use public transport and have to wait at bus stops are more susceptible to such health risks.

According to a delivery boy of a restaurant, encountering polluting vehicles has become a daily affair for them during work. Besides wearing long sleeves, a helmet and mask are the other modes of protection they have while on the road.

He said old vehicles with diesel engines such as buses, trucks and pickups, which are not properly maintained, are the main polluters on the road.

Another resident pointed out that driving behind or next to a smoke-belching vehicle often forces motorists to make risky overtaking or passing manoeuvres, which may pose a safety risk.

A number of mechanics working at car service stations explained that mechanical engine faults and irregular engine pipe cleaning could be a reason for the emission of black smoke.