Air Pollution Crisis in West Bengal Cities

West Bengal is facing a severe air pollution crisis. A recent report by IQAir marks that all cities, except Kolkata, experienced worsening air quality in 2024 compared to the previous year. Kolkata remains the second most polluted metro city in India, trailing only Delhi. The report is based on data from over 40,000 monitoring stations across 138 regions, focusing on PM2.5 levels, a dangerous pollutant linked to severe health issues.

About PM2.5 and Its Impact

PM2.5 refers to particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or smaller. These fine particles can penetrate the lungs and enter the bloodstream. Exposure to high levels of PM2.5 is associated with respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and premature death. The World Health Organisation recommends a maximum of 5 microgrammes per cubic metre, but many cities in West Bengal exceed this limit .

Current Pollution Levels in West Bengal

In 2024, Durgapur and Asansol ranked 24th and 25th globally for air pollution. Durgapur recorded PM2.5 levels of 72.3 microgrammes, while Asansol was close behind at 72.2 microgrammes. Other cities like Barrackpore and Howrah also reported alarming levels, with PM2.5 values far above the WHO guidelines. Despite investments to combat pollution, the situation has worsened.

Sources of Pollution

The pollution in Durgapur and Asansol is largely attributed to industrial activities and emissions from neighbouring states. Barrackpore’s pollution is exacerbated by local brickfields. Howrah suffers from unplanned industrial growth and insufficient green cover. Kolkata’s pollution is influenced by regional factors, including emissions from surrounding areas.

Government Initiatives and Challenges

The state government has invested approximately Rs 120 crore in pollution control measures. Kolkata has spent Rs 792 crore under the National Clean Air Programme over five years. Efforts have included water sprinkling and reducing roadside emissions. However, experts warn that without addressing regional pollution sources, improvements will be challenging.

Expert Opinions on Solutions

Environmental experts stress the need for a multi-sectoral approach to tackle air pollution. This includes addressing emissions from transport, waste burning, and industrial discharges. Experts suggest targeting ammonia emissions, which contribute to the formation of ultrafine particulate matter. Effective policy implementation is crucial for meaningful change.

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2025

Category: Environment Current Affairs