Health crisis in Kolkata as 'poor' air quality persists beyond Diwali and Kali Puja

Even 10 days post the Diwali and Kali Puja festivities, Kolkata continues to grapple with 'poor' air quality, raising significant health concerns among its residents. As per the West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB), various parts of the city, including Ballygunge, Bidhannagar, and Jadavpur, recorded Air Quality Index (AQI) readings in the 'poor' range. At 6 pm on Thursday, Ballygunge in the southern part reported an AQI of 296, Bidhannagar in the east recorded 284, and Jadavpur in the south marked 252. Rabindra Sarobar, despite being an eco-sensitive zone, surpassed the 300 mark during the day, adding to the city's air quality concerns.

 While the AQI during the Diwali and Kali Puja festivals ranged between 189 and 255 across Kolkata, the current readings classify the air quality as 'poor.' The WBPCB official highlighted that with the onset of wintry conditions and temperatures dipping below 20 degrees Celsius, cases of respiratory problems are on the rise. An AQI between 201 and 300 triggers a health alert, and over 300 prompts health warnings of emergency conditions.

Environmentalist Somendra Mohan Ghosh expressed concerns, stating, "The entire population is likely to be affected by serious health effects if there is no rain caused by depression or other weather disturbances." Previously, the AQI ranged between 100 and 200 (moderate), but recent measurements show an average air quality ranging between 160 and 220 in the city. Authorities and environmentalists emphasize the need for immediate measures to address the persistently 'poor' air quality in Kolkata.