The problem

Tiljala lies in eastern Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal. About 34 small-scale secondary lead smelters operate here. They are located in close proximity to dense residential areas and open water bodies, thus endangering residents with lead exposure from smelter emissions and dust.

Current Activity

Site visited. This site will be pursued for remediation as it poses significant health risks to the population

Outcome

A study of the impact of lead contamination, and a plan for remediation has been drawn up with Blacksmith’s support. This populous neighborhood of Kolkata houses a dozen battery recycling outfits, and lead contamination throughout the region is extensive and dangerous. The study will help to focus government efforts to upgrade or move these industries, and to remediate the area.

A stakeholder group has also been constituted to come up with solutions to deal with the pollution from the lead smelters.