Archive · 5 Jan 2026
Calcutta chokes: Rampant waste burning defies ban
In Calcutta, people are burning dry leaves and garbage in the open, even though it's not allowed.
This happens a lot in the winter.
The smoke from these fires is very bad for health because it contains harmful chemicals.
Scientists say burning plastic in the open is especially dangerous.
The city authorities are trying to stop this by asking the police to be more watchful and by teaching people about the dangers of burning waste.
They want people to know that burning leaves might keep them warm, but it's bad for everyone's health.
Rampant waste burning continues in Calcutta despite a ban, with fires spotted near Raj Bhavan and Curzon Park.
The waste burned includes dry leaves and plastic, which releases toxic chemicals like furan and dioxin when burned at low temperatures.
Burning waste in the open is hazardous and contributes to air pollution through particulate matter.
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) plans to urge the Kolkata Police to be more vigilant and raise awareness about the harmful effects of waste burning.
Residents report that waste burning fills neighborhoods with smoke, forcing them to close windows to avoid the smoke.
- Who
- Residents and waste collectors in Calcutta
- What
- Rampant waste burning despite a ban
- When
- Winter months, specifically noted in December
- Where
- Multiple locations in Calcutta, including Raj Bhavan, Curzon Park, Maidan, Vivekananda Park, and Kasba
- Why
- To dispose of waste, but it is harmful and illegal
- Location
- Raj Bhavan, Curzon Park, Maidan, Vivekananda Park, Kasba
- Materials Burned
- Dry leaves, plastic waste, garbage
- Ban on Burning
- Yes, but often violated in winter
- Health Hazards
- Release of toxic chemicals like furan and dioxin, particulate matter
- Safe Burning Temperature
- At least 800 degrees Celsius in an enclosed environment
- Authorities' Response
- KMC to urge Kolkata Police for vigilance and raise awareness