The Mumbai Mirror reports a surge in respiratory illnesses among children as dust, dense smog, and construction pollution fill the air, especially in the mornings. Many kids are visiting hospitals with persistent coughs, breathlessness and infections rather than infections alone. Dr Amit P Ghawade, consultant paediatrician and neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Kharghar, says about 7 in 10 children aged 3–10 at his clinic present with respiratory complaints linked to dust exposure. One child developed pneumonia and required week-long hospital care before fully recovering. Experts recommend masks, improved indoor air quality and timely medical care to protect vulnerable young lungs.