Patna: The Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) has released a study examining the air pollution and health risks associated with open bonfires commonly lit during winter to keep warm.
Municipal Commissioner Yashpal Meena released the report, titled ‘Beyond the Bonfires: Rethinking Winter Heating for Vulnerable Populations of Patna’, on Monday on the occasion of International Day of Clean Air.
Meena also held discussions with experts on the findings of the study and measures that could help reduce winter air pollution.
The study was conducted by experts from the Air Pollution Action Group (A-PAG) in collaboration with the PMC. It examined the dependence on open bonfires for warmth, their contribution to air pollution and associated health risks, and the possibility of providing safer alternatives.
Vulnerable groups surveyed
As part of the study, researchers interacted with homeless people, night-shift workers, commuters, street vendors and residents of informal settlements.
Teams also visited shelters, slum areas and bus stands to understand how people cope with low temperatures during winter and the heating arrangements available to them.
The study found that open bonfires can be a significant source of local air pollution. According to its findings, PM2.5 levels in the surrounding environment increased by approximately 18–30% because of bonfires, with vulnerable populations particularly exposed to the resulting health risks.
PMC plans more winter shelters
Meena said the PMC provides shelter facilities for homeless and needy people during winter to reduce their dependence on open bonfires.
The corporation currently operates six permanent shelters, 12 German Hangar structures and tents at eight locations, providing a combined capacity of 955 beds.
These shelters provide drinking water, toilets, bedding, blankets and heaters.
“Better shelter and heating facilities help reduce the reliance of needy individuals on lighting bonfires in the open,” Meena said.
The meeting also discussed strengthening these facilities ahead of winter.
Gig workers’ lounges could offer alternative
The PMC has already provided AC lounge facilities for gig workers at two locations within its jurisdiction.
Officials and experts discussed making these facilities suitable for winter and expanding their number according to demand.
According to the experts, safe and adequately equipped spaces for people working or staying outdoors could reduce the need to light bonfires on streets and other open spaces for warmth.
Zones recognised for waste management
A-PAG experts also appreciated the PMC’s efforts to control air pollution, particularly its management of construction and demolition (C&D) waste and the prompt handling of waste collection and garbage disposal points.
The Azimabad Zone and Nutan Rajdhani Zone were recognised for effective management and quick resolution of complaints related to C&D waste and garbage points.
The event was attended by Additional Municipal Commissioners, the Chief Municipal Engineer, the Executive Officer of the Nutan Rajdhani Zone, A-PAG Associate Director Kritika Chaudhary, KCT Group founder Nitasha Thapar, experts from the Aga Khan Foundation, the PMC’s National Clean Air Programme consultant and other officials and experts.
