Ballygunge’s Air Quality Crisis: AQI Reaches 163
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Ballygunge, Kolkata, has surged to 163, marking it as “unhealthy” per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. This spike raises urgent health concerns and calls for immediate measures to curb pollution.
Decoding the AQI Scale
The AQI ranges from 0 (clean) to 500 (hazardous). Key thresholds:
– 0–50 (Good): Safe for all.
– 51–100 (Moderate): Mild risk for sensitive groups.
– 101–150 (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups): Kids, elderly, and asthma patients at risk.
– 151–200 (Unhealthy): All residents may face health effects.
At 163, Ballygunge’s air poses risks like respiratory distress and aggravated heart conditions.
Top 5 Causes of Poor Air Quality in Ballygunge
- Traffic Pollution: Peak-hour congestion and outdated vehicles spike emissions.
- Construction Dust: Unregulated projects release PM2.5/PM10 particles.
- Industrial Impact: Nearby factories add to the pollution load.
- Weather Traps: Low winter winds and humidity trap pollutants.
- Local Burning: Waste and biomass burning worsen particulate levels.
Health Risks at AQI 163
Pulmonologist Dr. Priya Menon warns:
“Sensitive groups—children, seniors, asthma/COPD patients—must limit exposure. Even healthy individuals risk throat irritation and fatigue.”
Long-term effects include chronic lung disease and cardiovascular harm.
5 Steps to Protect Yourself
- Stay Indoors: Avoid outdoor workouts, especially mornings/evenings.
- Wear N95 Masks: Filters 95% of airborne particles.
- Use Air Purifiers: HEPA filters improve indoor air.
- Track Real-Time AQI: Apps like SAFAR or CPCB provide updates.
- Hydrate & Eat Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Boosts immunity against pollution.
Demanding Action: Government & Community Roles
- Policy Measures: Stricter vehicle emissions tests, construction dust controls.
- Grassroots Efforts: Ballygunge residents are planting trees and reporting violations.
Kolkata’s Air Quality in Context
Ballygunge mirrors a national crisis—Delhi and Mumbai also battle hazardous AQI levels. Sustainable urban planning and cleaner energy are critical to long-term solutions.
For live AQI updates, follow NextMinuteNews.
