Aafrin Kidwai 
Representational image by Aafrin Kidwai
The largest source of PM2.5 pollution in Kolkata is the transport sector, according to a recent emission inventory analysis of the city’s air quality. However, municipal solid waste (MSW) is a developing industry that, along with transport and industries, generates 66% or two-thirds of the city’s ultrafine particulate matter pollution.
According to the report, transportation is responsible for 32% of the city’s PM2.5 emissions, followed by industry (18%) and municipal solid waste (16%).
The study was carried out by researchers from Utkal University and the National Institute of Advanced Studies under the direction of Professor Gurfan Beig, the original project director of SAFAR (System of Air Quality Weather Forecasting and Research). The origins of PM pollutants including PM10 and PM2.5 have also been traced for the first time by experts in this study.
The Dhapa landfill is one of the three pollution hotspots in the city as per the study, as per the report in The Times of India.
