Kolkata's Air Quality Deteriorates Ahead of Diwali, Environmentalists Fear Prolonged Hazard

Strategic Insights -

As the city gears up for Diwali celebrations, environmentalists are sounding the alarm over the city's air quality, which has deteriorated to the 'poor' category for the first time this season. The Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Station (CAAQMS) at Victoria Memorial recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 210-300 on Sunday, while the Jadavpur station also registered worrying spikes in pollutant concentrations. Environmental experts warn that the upcoming nights of firework revelry could push the city into a prolonged spell of hazardous air, with severe consequences for public health.

Key Takeaways:

  • The air quality in Kolkata has deteriorated to the 'poor' category for the first time this season, with the AQI at Victoria Memorial station reaching 210-300 on Sunday.
  • The Jadavpur station also registered worrying spikes in pollutant concentrations, fuelling concerns over the city's atmospheric health.
  • Environmental experts warn that Diwali celebrations could push the city into a prolonged spell of hazardous air, with severe consequences for public health.
  • Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions are the most vulnerable to the ill effects of poor air quality.
  • Hospitals typically report a surge in cases of asthma, bronchitis, and other breathing ailments immediately after Diwali.
  • Environmental groups are renewing their calls for restraint, urging citizens to minimise fireworks and adopt alternative celebrations.
  • Every kilogram of crackers avoided means fewer micrograms of particulate matter in the air, according to environmental groups.

Statistics:

  • Air Quality Index (AQI) at Victoria Memorial station: 210-300
  • Pollutant concentrations at Jadavpur station: worrying spikes
  • Cases of asthma, bronchitis, and other breathing ailments reported after Diwali: typically surge
  • Vulnerable population groups affected by poor air quality: children, elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions

Sources:

  • Times of India
  • Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Station (CAAQMS)
  • Sabuj Mancha environmental group