Is Kolkata following footsteps of Delhi? Air pollution reaches alarming level

Kolkata, December 20: December and Kolkata have a heavenly bonding as the city comes out of post-Durgapujo depression with a sudden hit from various festivities. But this December is really not bringing good news for the city. Pollution level has crossed Delhi’s pollution level on Tuesday, the city which is considered as the worst polluted metro in India. Its PM2.5 level was almost twice as bad as Delhi’s on the onset of this week.

Winter becomes one of the worst seasons for polluted cities. With rise in humidity floating air pollutants cannot go out as air cannot rise easily. With temperature inversion, those pollutants get trapped making the situation worse.

Environmentalists across the city are worried about the situation though Kolkata remains less polluted than Delhi in most of the times of the year. The situation becomes more complex as the government keeps a weird silence on this highly alarming issue. Even West Bengal Pollution Control Board has stopped measuring pollution levels. The absence of proper information is seriously haunting the city.

As per US consulate Data, Kolkata’s PM2.5 level remained lowest 160 in last 24 hours. When it crosses 150, air pollution can increase aggravation of heart or lung disease and premature mortality in persons with cardiopulmonary disease and the elderly; increased respiratory effects in general population.

While in this situation, the people with respiratory disease, such as asthma, should avoid prolonged outdoor exertion there’s till now no alert from the health department or Kolkata Municipal Corporation. In December’s chilly weather, people go outside much for festivals, picnic, and outings. But anyone should limit outdoor exertion in this situation.