Politics · India · 1 hr ago
Kolkata pollution spikes during Deepavali as 205 people are arrested
During Deepavali celebrations in Kolkata, air pollution became severe and noise levels exceeded permitted limits in some areas.
The city’s Air Quality Index went above 500, and about 205 people were arrested for breaking firecracker rules.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari defended the celebrations and blamed critics on social media on Communists and people who do not share traditional Hindu beliefs.
He said authorities had acted under Supreme Court noise rules, though some crackers were set off after the permitted hours.
BJP lawmaker Papia Adhikari also claimed that firecrackers could cure illnesses, while environmental group Sabuj Mancha found noise levels above limits at hospitals.
Environmentalists urged stricter enforcement by the police and state government, but no further action was specified.
Kolkata recorded severe air pollution during Deepavali, with the Air Quality Index crossing 500 in several parts of the city.
Noise levels also exceeded permissible limits in some areas.
About 205 people were arrested for violating rules governing firecrackers.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari defended the celebrations and said the situation was largely under control.
Residents and environmentalists called for action over pollution and noise.
- Who
- About 205 people were arrested; Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari defended the celebrations.
- What
- Air pollution and noise levels exceeded permissible limits during Deepavali as firecracker rules were violated.
- When
- During Deepavali; the article was published on November 9, 2026.
- Where
- Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
- Why
- The arrests were for violating rules governing firecrackers.
Suvendu Adhikari and BJP colleagues
Residents and environmentalists
Celebrations
Suvendu Adhikari and BJP colleagues
Adhikari defended Deepavali celebrations and said people could burst green crackers.
Residents and environmentalists
Some residents complained about the pollution and noise, while environmentalists urged stricter enforcement of firecracker rules.
Enforcement
Suvendu Adhikari and BJP colleagues
Adhikari said the administration had taken necessary measures and police acted against people who burst crackers after permitted hours.
Residents and environmentalists
Sabuj Mancha urged the Kolkata Police and State government to enforce the rules strictly.
Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Minister Agnimitra Paul suggested spraying a mist of rose water and water to control air pollution.
Air pollution and noise levels breached permissible limits in parts of Kolkata.
About 205 people were arrested for violating rules governing firecrackers.
- Air Quality Index
- Above 500 in several parts of Kolkata
- Arrests
- About 205 people
- Location
- Kolkata, West Bengal
- Noise levels
- Above permissible limits in some areas
- Environmental group
- Sabuj Mancha
What people are saying
I feel the situation was largely under control.
People will celebrate a little during Diwali and burst green crackers, what is the problem with that?
When will this noise stop? I cannot sleep. Kolkata Police please help,
You will see that bursting firecrackers will cure many illnesses,