Photo: business-standard.com
Post-Diwali: Kolkata Sees Spike in Respiratory Illnesses and Pregnancy Risks
Following the Diwali and Kali Puja celebrations, Kolkata is experiencing a surge in respiratory diseases and pregnancy complications due to increased firecracker-related air and noise pollution.
- Between October 20 and 22, Kolkata hospitals noted a drastic rise in respiratory disease cases, particularly asthma, linked to heightened pollution from firecracker use during Diwali.
- Doctors specializing in pulmonology and gynecology reported increased visits from patients, citing complications in pregnant women and IVF patients after the festive celebrations.
- Air quality in Kolkata has deteriorated significantly post-Diwali, with pollution levels surpassing safe limits, prompting health warnings from medical professionals.
Why It Matters
This rise in respiratory diseases and pregnancy risks underscores the urgent need for public awareness about the health impacts of firecracker use during festivals, highlighting broader environmental health concerns in urban areas like Kolkata.