Along the Hooghly: Mayapur to Kolkata

Sunday, 22 February 2015

As we got closer to Kolkata, the pollution and abuse of the river became ever more apparent. Rivers might be considered the "Mother of India" and a goddess, but they are not respected.

One of the largest brick-making sites we saw. While this one is not firing kilns at the moment, brick factories typically put out thick black smoke.

As we approached Kolkata, power plants became more numerous. They were consistently among the most visible polluters.

Smoke is a constant along the Hooghly. Even the trash along the banks is set on fire to minimize its volume, reducing one problem, but creating another.

Abandonned watercraft add to navigation hazards.

But life goes on. Waterfront property is always desirable.

Some of these houses are raised on stilts.

Even close to Kolkata, ferries are still the main way to cross the river.

Portuguese church. Kolkata has seen the Portuguese, French, Dutch, and British establish colonies in the area.

French area.

Sunset on the Hooghly.