Ballygunge’s Air Quality Crisis: AQI at 163
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Ballygunge, Kolkata, has risen to 163, classified as “unhealthy” by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This level poses serious risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. Here’s what you need to know.
AQI Scale Explained
The AQI ranges from 0 (clean) to 500 (hazardous):
– 0–50 (Good): Safe for all.
– 51–100 (Moderate): Mild risk for sensitive groups.
– 101–150 (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups): Asthma/COPD sufferers at risk.
– 151–200 (Unhealthy): Health effects possible for everyone.
– 201+ (Very Unhealthy/Hazardous): Emergency-level pollution.
Ballygunge’s 163 AQI means even healthy adults may experience coughing, throat irritation, or fatigue.
Causes of Poor Air Quality in Ballygunge
- Traffic Pollution: High vehicle density near Gariahat/Rashbehari, with older diesel engines emitting PM2.5.
- Construction Dust: Metro projects and high-rise developments worsen particulate levels.
- Winter Inversions: Cold air traps pollutants (common November–February).
- Local Sources: Open waste burning, coal-based street food stalls, and diesel generators.
Health Risks
- Aggravated asthma, bronchitis, and COPD.
- 20–30% spike in respiratory ER visits (per AMRI Hospital reports).
- Long-term exposure linked to heart disease and lung damage.
Expert Quote:
“N95 masks are essential when AQI exceeds 150. Asthmatics should carry inhalers.” —Dr. Priya Banerjee, Pulmonologist, AMRI Kolkata
5 Protective Measures for Residents
- Mask Up: Wear N95/KN95 masks outdoors.
- Purify Indoors: Use HEPA air purifiers, especially in bedrooms.
- Avoid Peak Pollution: Skip morning walks; exercise indoors.
- Hydrate & Diet: Boost immunity with vitamin C and omega-3s.
- Track Real-Time AQI: Use SAFAR-Air or AQI India apps.
Government Actions & Gaps
- Odd-even vehicle rules (temporary).
- Dust control at construction sites.
- Criticism: Lack of enforcement on waste burning and slow EV adoption.
Kolkata’s Wider Air Pollution Problem
Neighborhoods like Dum Dum, Salt Lake, and Howrah also face AQIs above 150. IIT-Kharagpur data shows Kolkata’s PM2.5 levels are 5x higher than WHO limits annually.
Key Takeaway
While masks and purifiers help short-term, long-term solutions require policy shifts: electric public transport, green zones, and industrial emission controls.
For live AQI updates, follow NextMinuteNews.
