The air quality in some public places in the city that includes restaurants, bars and pubs, is harmful, says a study conducted by the Voluntary Health Organisation of India in association with Cancer Foundation of India. The study has also implied that ban on smoking could not be enforced in some public places in Kolkata.

The air quality in hotels and restaurants in Calcutta that follow anti-smoking laws is much worse than in similar eateries in the rest of the country, a study conducted in 214 establishments across 16 cities has revealed.

BHUBANESWAR: The State Government today approved a special plan for the seven pollution zones in Orissa identified by the Orissa State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB).

In a few months, Delhiites would not have to check the news channels or wait for the morning newspaper for weather details. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is getting 17 outdoor display boards for the city to give out real-time temperature, a satellite map of India, along with air quality index.

STATES RESIST THE FORMATION OF NATIONAL ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION AUTHORITY

THE ENVIRONMENT MINISTRY WILL, IN THE coming monsoon session, place a Bill for creating the National Environment Protection Authority (Nepa), an authority modelled on the lines of the US Environmental Protection Agency. What is less clear is whether this body will be a powerful watchdog, or a toothless old hound.