Kolkata's Post-Diwali Air Quality Concerns Rise Amid Festivities

Kolkata's air quality suffered post-Diwali festivities, with 'poor' AQI levels reported in several areas. Despite green firework initiatives, pollution exceeded safe limits. The West Bengal Pollution Control Board urged citizens to reduce cracker use. Environmentalists highlighted rampant noise pollution and stressed comprehensive monitoring.

Kolkata faced significantly deteriorated air quality following the Kali Puja and Diwali celebrations, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) was deemed 'poor' across various areas on Friday morning.

The West Bengal Pollution Control Board revealed that PM 2.5 levels reached as high as 173 in Ballygunje, with similar figures in Jadavpur, Beleghata, and Sinthi. This poor air quality prompted concerns from environmentalists and officials alike.

Efforts to curb pollution by limiting the use of illegal firecrackers proved somewhat effective. However, environmentalists like Somendra Mohan Ghosh pointed out rampant noise pollution, suggesting that more comprehensive and frequent monitoring is needed to address the environmental impacts fully.

(With inputs from agencies.)