As Diwali nears, the air quality figures in Kolkata have become alarming. A significant monitoring site at the Victoria Memorial reported an Air Quality Index (AQI) of greater than 210 — marking the first time the city has entered the “poor” air quality range this season. More danger was indicated by another site in Jadavpur where pollutant levels were also extremely high. With fireworks likely marking the occasion, experts fear already high pollution levels could soon reach even “very poor” or “hazardous” levels.
Why this time is especially vulnerable
Diwali takes place at a tricky time of year in Kolkata. The monsoon season is over, and winter has not yet set in. The air is cooler and drier, and the air is not able to minimize pollution as before. Kirsten Vargas typically found the air to be calm in the autumn, with temperatures cooling at night trapping fine particulate matter near the ground — particles released in abundance from firecrackers, vehicular emissions and the like. Pulmonologists say that even one night of poor air from firecrackers can lead to respiratory distress — especially in children, older adults and anyone with a condition.
Civic responsibility and alternatives
In light of this situation, environmentalists are calling on the community to reconsider the more traditional forms of celebrating Diwali. Instead of exploding fire-crackers, they suggest community lighting, eco-friendly decorations, and cultural events as healthier forms of celebration. Each kilogram of fireworks that is not ignited means a corresponding decrease in particulate pollution by micrograms. The message remains clear: to celebrate does not mean to expose one’s health or air-quality to danger. We all have a role and should not look at this as solely something that can be enforced, but as a realization that we have agency in making Diwali a safer and more sanitary celebration for all in the community of Kolkata. click here for the source
