Is Air Quality in Kolkata Deteriorating Due to Firecracker Violations?
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Synopsis
Kolkata is grappling with severe air quality issues due to rampant firecracker usage during Kali Puja. Despite regulations, the community's disregard for guidelines has led to alarming pollution levels. Expert insights reveal the dire consequences of these violations, urging immediate action from authorities to protect public health.
Key Takeaways
- Indiscriminate firecracker use during Kali Puja has led to unhealthy AQI levels.
- The Kolkata Police's time restrictions were largely ignored.
- Health risks are significant, especially for sensitive individuals.
- Authorities have taken action, arresting multiple violators.
- Community awareness is crucial for improving air quality.
Kolkata, Oct 21 (NationPress) The rampant use of firecrackers during Kali Puja has escalated the Air Quality Index (AQI) to unhealthy levels across numerous areas in Kolkata.
Despite the Kolkata Police issuing a circular limiting firecracker usage to a window between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Monday for both Kali Puja and Diwali, this directive was openly disregarded throughout the city.
Firecracker activity commenced at around 5 p.m. on Monday and persisted well into the early hours of the next day. The police's prohibition against loud crackers, as mandated by the court, was consistently ignored.
The most alarming AQI was recorded in the New Town area on the northern outskirts of Kolkata, where PM 2.5 levels soared to 199, categorizing it as red or unhealthy, posing health risks particularly to those sensitive to air pollution.
At the Victoria Memorial in the Maidan area, a vital green space for the city, AQI levels reached 186 PM 2.5. Even worse, adjacent Belur in Howrah district reported a staggering 364. Other regions in the city also experienced significant pollution spikes due to these violations.
Environmental expert and green technologist, Somendra Mohan Ghosh, expressed disappointment over the blatant non-compliance with the court's timing restrictions for firecracker usage, emphasizing the lack of administrative action. He noted, "From 10 p.m. on Monday to 3 a.m. on Tuesday, the excessive use of crackers caused immense suffering. Air and sound pollution levels surged dramatically, surpassing danger thresholds."
On the evening of Kali Puja, Kolkata Police apprehended 45 individuals for using illegal firecrackers and disturbing public order, according to a police spokesperson.
Point of View
I acknowledge the pressing issue of air pollution in Kolkata exacerbated by firecracker violations. The blatant disregard for health directives not only endangers public safety but also highlights the need for stricter enforcement and community awareness. We must prioritize the health of our citizens while respecting cultural traditions.
NationPress
21/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current Air Quality Index in Kolkata?
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Kolkata has reached unhealthy levels, with certain areas reporting PM 2.5 levels as high as 364.
What time were firecrackers allowed during Kali Puja?
The Kolkata Police had regulated firecracker usage to between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Monday for Kali Puja.
How many people were arrested for violating firecracker regulations?
Kolkata Police arrested 45 individuals for using illegal firecrackers and causing disturbances on Kali Puja.
What are the health implications of high AQI levels?
High AQI levels can lead to serious health issues, especially for individuals sensitive to air pollution.
What actions can be taken to improve air quality?
Stricter enforcement of regulations, community awareness campaigns, and promoting eco-friendly alternatives to firecrackers can help improve air quality.
