What is the current air quality in Kolkata?

Kolkata's air quality recently deteriorated to its worst level of the season, with several monitoring stations reporting 'very poor' air quality.

Why is Kolkata's air quality poor despite warmer weather?

Experts attribute the poor air quality to persistent emission sources like vehicular traffic and construction dust, rather than meteorological conditions alone.

What health risks are associated with Kolkata's air pollution?

The 'very poor' air quality poses a heightened risk of respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses, especially for vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.

Home / Environment / Kolkata Air Quality Hits Season Worst

Kolkata Air Quality Hits Season Worst

22 Jan

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Summary

Kolkata's air quality reached its worst level this season.
Three monitoring stations recorded air quality in the 'very poor' category.
Experts cite vehicular emissions and construction dust as key factors.

Kolkata experienced a sharp decline in air quality on Tuesday, reaching its worst level for the season. This deterioration occurred despite rising temperatures, which typically aid in dispersing pollutants.

For the first time this year, three of the city's seven continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations reported air quality within the 'very poor' category. The Ballygunge, JU, and RBU stations recorded AQI levels of 311, 313, and 355, respectively, by Wednesday morning, signaling a significant public health concern.

Atmospheric scientists pointed to ongoing emission sources, such as vehicular exhaust, construction dust, and localized industrial activities, as the primary drivers of this pollution spike. They emphasized that meteorological factors alone were not responsible and stressed the need for stringent enforcement of pollution control measures.