Kolkata’s air quality reached “very unhealthy” levels on Diwali night, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing 400, as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The city’s air quality, initially measured at 60 micrograms at 6pm, gradually deteriorated as cracker activity increased.

Noise pollution has also increased significantly, especially in quiet areas near hospitals and schools, where the permissible limit at night is 45 decibels. Around midnight, levels rose to 70 decibels due to illegal fireworks use, according to authorities.

Environmentalists criticized the lack of monitoring late at night.

“Police conducted raids and seized illegal fireworks in the early evening but did not actively monitor violations committed late at night,” said environmentalist Somendra Mohan Ghosh, who also blamed the West Bengal Pollution Control Board.

Ghosh emphasized that the use of firecrackers after 10 pm violated the orders of the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal.

POLICE RESPONDED TO VIOLators

By 7 am on Friday, Kolkata police had seized a total of 717.8 kg of illegal firecrackers, of which 601 were arrested in connection with Diwali night crimes. Of these, 265 people were arrested for using illegal fireworks, while 328 people were detained for irregular behavior. 8 more people were arrested for allegedly gambling.

“Raids and searches are continuing and legal proceedings are being initiated,” Police Commissioner Manoj Verma said.

Kolkata Police also seized 79.4 liters of illicit liquor.

Kolkata Traffic Police issued 841 citations for traffic violations during Diwali night. According to sources, 193 were for driving without helmets for pillion passengers, 296 for drivers not wearing helmets, 93 for rash driving, 90 for drunk driving and 169 for other offences.