Kolkata's Diwali Pollution: A Tale of Two Perspectives

Kolkata Police reported reduced noise and air pollution during Diwali compared to last year. However, environmentalists observed illegal firecracker use, resulting in high decibel levels and poor air quality. Specific areas registered alarming AQI figures, raising concerns over public health and guideline violations.

Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Verma stated that the city experienced reduced noise and air pollution levels during this year's Diwali celebrations compared to the previous year.

Verma highlighted that the enforcement of guidelines had improved, with noise levels staying below the 125-decibel limit and air quality better than in other major Indian cities by 6 pm Monday. However, the environmentalists painted a different picture.

Illegal high-decibel firecrackers were allegedly used well past the permissible hours, causing panic and distress, particularly among vulnerable groups. This defiance led to poor air quality in specific areas, with AQI readings soaring to concerning levels in multiple zones across the city.

(With inputs from agencies.)