Mon Jan 19 15:51:03 UTC 2026: ### Calcutta High Court Addresses Worsening Kolkata Air Pollution

The Story: The Calcutta High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of the rapidly deteriorating air quality in Kolkata and surrounding areas like Howrah. This action was prompted by Kolkata’s Air Quality Index (AQI) occasionally exceeding that of Delhi, a city notorious for its pollution. A division bench led by Chief Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Partha Sarathi Sen issued notices to the West Bengal government, seeking a response to the escalating crisis.

The court’s intervention comes in conjunction with a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Advocate Akash Sharma, who alleges that the state government and the West Bengal Pollution Control Board failed to take “enforceable” action despite being notified about the deteriorating AQI. The PIL argues that continued exposure to “very poor”, “severe”, and “hazardous” air quality levels violates the fundamental right to life and health under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.

Key Points:

  • The Calcutta High Court initiated a suo motu case regarding air pollution in Kolkata and Howrah on January 19, 2026.
  • The court also addressed a PIL filed by Advocate Akash Sharma citing inaction by the West Bengal government and Pollution Control Board.
  • The PIL argues that poor air quality violates Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and health.
  • Professor Abhijit Chatterjee of the Bose Institute attributed the high AQI to the accumulation of pollutants due to atmospheric and meteorological factors, including a lowered boundary layer caused by extreme cold and the burning of waste.
  • Respirer Living Sciences analysis showed that Kolkata’s AQI was driven by toxic gases like nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and ground-level ozone (O₃) on 82 days in 2025.
  • The court has asked the State and other respondents to reply to the concerns by February 28, 2026 and said the case would be listed for hearing after that.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Calcutta High Court’s intervention underscores the severity of the air pollution crisis in Kolkata.
  • The focus on toxic gaseous pollutants like nitrogen dioxide and ground-level ozone, in addition to particulate matter, represents a more nuanced understanding of the pollution problem.
  • The case highlights the importance of coordinated action and accountability among different government departments in addressing environmental issues.
  • Public awareness and stringent action against indiscriminate waste burning are crucial steps in mitigating the pollution.
  • The court’s decision to address the matter proactively suggests a potential shift towards stricter enforcement of environmental regulations.

Impact Analysis:

The High Court’s active involvement is likely to compel the West Bengal government to take more decisive action against air pollution. This could involve stricter enforcement of existing regulations, the implementation of new pollution control measures, and increased public awareness campaigns. The focus on addressing toxic gaseous pollutants, as highlighted by Respirer Living Sciences, could lead to more targeted and effective pollution control strategies. The long-term impact could include improved air quality, reduced health risks for residents, and a greater emphasis on environmental protection in Kolkata and surrounding areas. Furthermore, this case may set a precedent for other Indian cities facing similar air pollution challenges.

Read More