Smog

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 28936, 2 July 1959, Page 3

Smog

Sir,—-The topography of Los Angeles is strikingly similar to that of Christchurch and the recent Christchurch smogs are mild examples of the affliction such topography can cause when combined with the right atmospheric conditions. In Los Angeles atmospheric pollution Ims become so bad that legislation permits the most drastic action when smogs intensify In Britain the Clean Air Act seeks to reduce the pollution which can cause, a smog to become lethal. In New Zealand the Government . nas already provided for technical inspectors in the Wellington and Auckland areas The smogs indicate that similar advice and control are needed for Christchurcn before the problem becomes unmanageable and the atmosphere , as foul as London or Los Angeles. —Yours, etc, MIASMA. June 30, 1959.

Sir,—"Expert Advice’.’ has drawn attention to the "foulsmelling filthy smog*’ which we have unfortunately experienced on several occasions lately. I am amazed at the general apathy and indifference of citizens to the pollution. If our water supply was suddenly polluted with noticeable poisons the public would demand action, whereas this insidious poisoning of the air passes almost unnoticed. How many citizens have noticed the increasing sulphurous tang of our smog-laden air? How many have noticed the weak sunlight in the city while the outer suburbs are brilliantly sunny? I am sure many citizens would be assured to know this polluted air does not affect their health. Is there any component (gaseous or solid) of our recent smogs which causes increased incidence of illness or disease? Perhaps the District Medical Officer of Health would comment.—Yours, etc., CLEAN AHL July 1, 1959.