The study was conducted at 16 places in the city, out of which air quality at six locations were found to be harmful. The quality of air in public places is determined by measuring the level of particulate matter at a location.

Particulate matter, also known as PM-10, is air pollution made up of tiny particles smaller than 10 microns in diameter (about 10 times smaller than the width of the average human hair). These particles can travel deep into the lungs when breathed, posing serious risks to human health.

The particulate matter in the air should remain around 2.5 PM, but the study revealed that the PM was higher at six locations in Kolkata. Experts, however, did not disclose the names.

The study was conducted by professionals associated with the Cancer Foundation and the data collected were analysed by the Roswell Park Cancer Institute in New York. Members of the organisation visited the locations between 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. and stayed at each location for at least 30 minutes.

The mandatory ‘No smoking sign’ was found in four places only, the study revealed. It was also revealed that in such places there was no designated smoking room (DSR). The study also found that in Kolkata most people smoke in the stairs.

According to Mr PC Bhatnagar, director of Voluntary Health Organisation of India, the surveyors measured particulate matter in the air with the help of a device ~ TSI SidePak Monitor. It was found that cigarettes and hookah pipes, emit major particulate matters, affecting passive smokers equally. Contrary to popular belief, the latter are the worst sufferers of lung and oral cancer, Mr Bhatnagar said.

Mrs Sutapa Biswas, executive director of the organisation said, the state government has failed to implement the Tobacco Control Law and if adequate measures are not taken in this regard, about one crore people will suffer from cancer by the year 2030.