Recently, drivers traveling on the Ho Chi Minh City – Long Thanh – Dau Giay expressway have been affected by severe “red dust storms” caused by nearby construction activities at Long Thanh International Airport, combined with prolonged dry weather conditions .

This situation highlights the growing concern of fine dust pollution on highways and its serious consequences.

1. What is Fine Dust?

Fine dust refers to airborne particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5). These particles originate from:

• Fuel combustion
• Construction activities
• Traffic emissions

Due to their extremely small size, fine dust can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, posing severe health risks.

2. Health Impacts of Fine Dust

Respiratory diseases

Fine dust can cause:

• Asthma
• Pneumonia
• Chronic respiratory issues

Children and the elderly are especially vulnerable.

Cardiovascular diseases

Exposure to fine dust increases risks of:

• High blood pressure
• Reduced blood flow
• Heart disease and stroke

Cancer risks

According to global health research, fine dust is classified as a carcinogen, increasing the likelihood of lung cancer and other serious conditions.

3. Impact on Traffic Safety

Reduced visibility

Fine dust reduces visibility, especially at night or in foggy conditions, making driving more dangerous.

Increased accident risks

Dust accumulation on roads can:

• Reduce tire-road friction
• Cause vehicle instability
• Increase the likelihood of accidents

4. Causes of Fine Dust on Highways

Major sources include:

• Heavy traffic emissions
• Tire and road surface wear
• Large-scale construction projects

High-speed traffic and dense vehicle flow on highways further amplify dust dispersion.

5. Solutions to Reduce Fine Dust on Highways

Eco-friendly construction materials

Using durable and dust-reducing materials helps minimize emissions.

Air quality control systems

Monitoring and controlling pollution levels through regulations and technology.

Street sweeping vehicles

Mechanical sweepers are among the most effective solutions to remove accumulated dust quickly and efficiently.

6. Advanced Solution: Dulevo Street Sweepers

Dulevo street sweepers are widely used in industrial zones and infrastructure environments thanks to:

• Gore-Tex filtration system capturing particles as small as PM1
• High-efficiency dust containment without re-emission
• Compact and flexible design
• Reduced emissions with optimized engine systems
• Hydraulic waste discharge system for operational efficiency

These features make Dulevo an effective long-term solution for fine dust management.

Conclusion

Fine dust pollution on highways is a serious issue affecting both traffic safety and public health. Addressing this problem requires a combination of policy, technology, and equipment solutions. Among them, street sweeping systems play a crucial role in reducing dust accumulation and improving environmental quality.