Kolkata — The City of Joy is witnessing a quiet yet powerful environmental movement as local communities, student groups, and environmental NGOs are working together to restore balance to the city’s fragile ecosystem. Recent concerns over rising air pollution levels, shrinking green cover, and increased contamination of the Hooghly River have pushed citizens into proactive action.
In various parts of the city, volunteers have initiated tree-planting campaigns, with special focus near arterial roads such as EM Bypass, New Town, and Behala. These efforts aim to reduce dust circulation and urban temperature hotspots. Environmental researcher Dr. Sumita Sen highlighted that even small increases in urban plantations can significantly improve air quality over time.
Meanwhile, river cleanliness drives are underway with youth teams removing solid waste and raising awareness about reducing single-use plastics. Organizers of the Swachh Hooghly initiative state that consistent community participation is more impactful than occasional government-backed drives.
The state administration has taken note of these grassroots efforts and recently announced incentives for housing complexes that introduce rooftop gardens and rainwater-harvesting systems. While some environmentalists argue that long-term policy vision is still lacking, most agree that Kolkata is moving in a hopeful direction.
This rising wave of eco-responsibility is changing narratives. From street markets to educational institutions, conversations about sustainable living are becoming part of everyday culture. As one environmental volunteer said, “This is our city — if we don’t protect it, who will?