Kali Puja Fireworks Ignite Air Quality Concerns in Kolkata and Howrah

Air quality in Kolkata and Howrah significantly declined on Kali Puja night due to excessive use of firecrackers. AQI levels reached alarming figures, with environmentalists and officials criticizing the lax enforcement of regulations. The situation poses health risks to vulnerable populations, prompting calls for stricter control measures.

The air quality in Kolkata and Howrah deteriorated sharply on Kali Puja night as residents celebrated with firecrackers, defying permissible hours set by local authorities. Environmentalists have called attention to the lax enforcement of the guidelines issued by the West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB) and the police.

Official reports revealed alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) levels, with Victoria Memorial in Kolkata at 186 PM 2.5, while Belur in Howrah reached a 'severe' 364 at 10 pm. Other affected areas included Padmapukur and Ghusuri in Howrah, where the AQI levels rose to 361 and 252 respectively.

Environmental activists like Somendra Mohan Ghosh criticized both the police and WBPCB for their passive response to the rampant use of firecrackers, which left citizens and animals vulnerable to significant air and noise pollution. Calls for stricter regulation enforcement have intensified as concerns over public health and safety grow.

(With inputs from agencies.)