Environment News

As monsoon patterns become increasingly unpredictable, Kolkata has intensified efforts to protect the East Kolkata Wetlands while upgrading its drainage infrastructure to reduce seasonal flooding. Environmental engineers and municipal workers are engaged in pre-monsoon desilting, stormwater channel widening, and debris clearing to ensure smoother water flow through the city’s critical drainage network. Experts emphasize that preserving the wetlands—recognized globally for their natural water filtration and biodiversity—acts as a vital defense against urban flooding and ecological imbalance. Local residents have been encouraged to adopt rainwater harvesting and minimize plastic waste that often clogs drainage systems. With climate pressures rising each year, the city’s success will depend on a sustained partnership between civic bodies, environmental scientists, and community participation.

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?