Kolkata, 13 December (H.S.) :
Environmentalist Somendra Mohan Ghosh has expressed serious concerns over the rapidly deteriorating air quality in Kolkata, particularly in the Maidan area and around the historic Victoria Memorial. In a letter addressed to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the West Bengal Environment Department, Ghosh urged immediate intervention to control the worsening pollution.
Ghosh highlighted that the Maidan, often referred to as the “lung of Kolkata,” is currently experiencing severe air pollution. The ongoing Metro Rail construction near Victoria Memorial has further aggravated the situation. Recent measurements showed the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 342, categorised as “very poor” to “hazardous,” with some instances surpassing pollution levels recorded in Delhi.
According to Ghosh, the key contributors to the pollution spike include biomass burning in and around the Maidan, construction activities without eco-friendly practices, rising vehicle emissions, and the use of coal and firewood by roadside food stalls near the Esplanade bus stand. Dust from construction sites and open transport of soil in trucks has also increased the concentration of fine particulate matter in the air.
Ghosh recommended regular water sprinkling around Victoria Memorial to control dust, adoption of environmentally sustainable practices in Metro construction, and restrictions on old diesel vehicles on the Maa Flyover near Victoria. He warned that failure to take timely measures could pose a serious public health risk.
On Friday night, the AQI in several parts of Kolkata remained above 300. At 10 p.m., Victoria Memorial recorded an AQI of 355, while Jadavpur registered 311. During the day, Ballygunge and Fort William also crossed the 300 mark. On December 11, AQI reached 385, followed by 378 on December 12.
Ghosh explained that fine particulate matter (PM2.5/PM10) released during construction is highly hazardous for respiratory health. Doctors have noted rising cases of lung diseases and an increased risk of cancer due to prolonged exposure. He stressed that if immediate action is not taken, Kolkata could face a major public health crisis linked to air pollution.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh
