Are Pollution Levels in West Bengal Alarming? Six-Month Air Quality Report Reveals Disturbing Data
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Synopsis
The latest air quality report unveils alarming pollution levels in West Bengal, with Asansol being the most affected city. This troubling data highlights the urgent need for action to combat air pollution and protect public health. Discover the shocking statistics and implications for residents as experts weigh in.
Key Takeaways
- Asansol is the most polluted city in West Bengal.
- Most cities in the state exceed the PM2.5 and PM10 limits.
- Long-term exposure to PM2.5 can result in serious health issues.
- Public health initiatives are essential to address the pollution crisis.
- Immediate action is critical to protect vulnerable populations.
Kolkata, Aug 7 (NationPress) The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) disclosed on Thursday that a recent air quality report card has unveiled disturbing pollution levels throughout West Bengal over the past six months.
This biannual air quality report, a copy of which is obtained by IANS, is based on information from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and indicates persistent and hazardous air pollution levels across all cities in West Bengal, with Asansol standing out as the most polluted city.
The data analyzed by CREA, spanning from January 2025 to June 2025, reveals that every city in the state, with the exception of Haldia, surpassed the PM2.5 and PM10 limits in terms of PM2.5 values.
It is essential to note that PM10 refers to coarse particles measuring up to 10 micrometers in diameter, approximately one-seventh the width of a human hair.
When inhaled, these particles can lead to respiratory irritation and cardiovascular complications.
On the other hand, PM2.5, which is even finer at just 2.5 micrometers or smaller, poses greater toxicity as it can penetrate the bloodstream and harm internal organs.
These particles are mainly generated by combustion sources and are associated with serious health issues such as heart attacks, strokes, asthma, and lung diseases, particularly affecting children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Manoj Kumar, an analyst from CREA, expressed concern, stating: "The long-term exposure is particularly troubling because the cumulative inhalation of PM2.5, even at minimal concentrations, can lead to chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, driving the advancement of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases."
Kumar added that prolonged exposure to PM2.5 levels significantly raises the risks of heart and lung diseases, especially among vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and individuals with existing health issues.
The report card identifies Asansol as the most polluted city in West Bengal, with an average concentration of 60 μg/m3, which is 1.5 times higher than the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).
With the exception of Haldia (38 μg/m3), other cities including Barrackpore (52 μg/m3), Howrah (52 μg/m3), Durgapur (50 μg/m3), Siliguri (49 μg/m3), and Kolkata (44 μg/m3) all exceeded the NAAQS.
Kolkata recorded an average PM10 level of 88 µg/m³, which is 46 percent above the safe limit, and PM2.5 levels at 44 µg/m³, slightly surpassing the national standard of 40 µg/m³.
Point of View
It is vital to highlight the urgent need for addressing air pollution in West Bengal. The alarming data presented by CREA urges not only awareness but also immediate action from policymakers to safeguard the health of citizens, particularly vulnerable populations.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main pollutants mentioned in the report?
The report highlights PM2.5 and PM10 as the main pollutants, with PM2.5 posing significant health risks due to its ability to enter the bloodstream.
Which city has the highest pollution levels?
Asansol has been identified as the most polluted city in West Bengal, with an average PM2.5 concentration of 60 μg/m3.
What health issues are associated with PM2.5 exposure?
Exposure to PM2.5 is linked to serious health issues including heart attacks, strokes, asthma, and various lung diseases.
How does long-term exposure to PM2.5 affect health?
Long-term exposure can lead to chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, significantly increasing the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.
What actions are suggested to combat pollution?
The report calls for urgent action from policymakers to implement stricter air quality regulations and public health initiatives.
