Air, noise pollution fuels Kolkata health woes

DIWALI AFTERMATH

- 

Hospitals across Kolkata have reported a significant rise in respiratory illnesses among people and complications among pregnant women and IVF patients after Diwali and Kali Puja celebrations, with doctors attributing the surge to heightened air and noise pollution caused by bursting of firecrackers.

Pulmonologists and gynaecologists observed an uptick in both outpatient and inpatient visits between October 20 and 22, with pollution levels soaring well beyond safe limits.

Several medical professionals warned of serious health risks for vulnerable groups, including those with preexisting respiratory conditions and expecting mothers.

Dr Mrinmoy Mitra, senior consultant pulmonologist at ILS Hospital, Dumdum, reported a 10-15 per cent increase in hospital admissions for respiratory illnesses and a 20 per cent rise in OPD visits during the festive period.

"Most patients came in with aggravated asthma, AECOPD, chest tightness, wheezing, and nasal blockage. Diwali smoke and firecracker emissions create a hazardous environment, especially for those with chronic lung diseases,” Dr Mitra noted.