PM 2.5 pollution
India's Air Quality Crisis: Experts Call for Science-Based Standards as WHO Guidelines Remain Unimplemented
Dec 12, 2025 07:43 am CST
India faces severe air pollution with 13 of the world's 20 most polluted cities located within its borders. While the government maintains WHO air quality guidelines are merely advisory and defends its 16-year-old standards based on local factors, environmental experts emphasize the urgent need to align policies with health-based science as pollution continues to claim millions of lives annually and significantly reduces life expectancy across the nation.
Severe Air Pollution Crisis in Kolkata and Howrah Following Kali Puja Celebrations: AQI Reaches Dangerous Levels
Oct 21, 2025 12:54 pm CST
Following Kali Puja celebrations, Kolkata and Howrah experienced dangerous deterioration in air quality as residents ignored the 8-10 PM firecracker restriction. AQI readings reached 'severe' levels of 364 in Howrah and 186 near Victoria Memorial, raising serious health concerns for vulnerable populations. Environmental activists blame authorities for failing to enforce regulations during festivities.