Kolkata Reels Under Post-Diwali Pollution Surge

Kolkata continues to grapple with worsening air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) steadily remaining in the 'poor' category. According to the West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB), celebrations associated with Kali Puja and the subsequent Diwali festivities have led to prolonged firecracker use, exacerbating particulate matter levels in the city's atmosphere.

Despite recommendations to limit firecracker use to a stipulated time frame, environmentalists like Somendra Mohan Ghosh report rampant violations, with celebratory explosions echoing well past approved hours. This has led to pollution levels that pose significant health risks, especially to the elderly and those with pre-existing ailments.

Naba Dutta from the environmental group Sabuj Manch criticized the authorities for their lack of enforcement, which he argues emboldens offenders during festival times. Calls for stricter adherence to environmental norms and effective regulation remain a focal point as the impact on Kolkata's air quality deepens.