Home / Health / Kolkata's Smoggy Nights: Crackers Trigger Localized Air Crisis
Kolkata's Smoggy Nights: Crackers Trigger Localized Air Crisis
7 Nov
Summary
- Localized smog, or 'neighbourhood smog,' is affecting specific Kolkata areas.
- Firecracker smoke is causing coughing fits and worsening lung diseases.
- Hospitals report a rise in patients with sudden respiratory distress.
Localized smog, referred to as 'neighbourhood smog,' has emerged in several south and central Kolkata areas over the past few nights, directly linked to firecracker usage. This phenomenon involves high concentrations of ground-level air pollution confined to specific neighborhoods, unlike broader regional smog.
Physicians have noted a surge in patients experiencing coughing fits and exacerbated lung conditions such as asthma and COPD. Hospitals have reported a significant increase in admissions for sudden respiratory distress since Wednesday night. Medical experts emphasize that this localized pollution infiltrates the lungs at close range, delivering a concentrated dose of harmful particles.
Specialists highlight that firecracker smoke contains fine particles, sulphur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides, which can severely worsen respiratory symptoms. Patients with pre-existing conditions like COPD and lung cancer are particularly vulnerable, facing potential acute exacerbations. A further increase in respiratory cases is anticipated with continued cracker usage, with even mild symptoms potentially escalating rapidly for at-risk individuals.
