Chlorine shortage amid Iran conflict may force Kolkata swimming pools to shut during peak summer

Several swimming pools across Kolkata are facing the risk of closure at the onset of peak summer due to an acute shortage of chlorine, a key chemical required for water purification. The crisis, linked to global supply disruptions amid the ongoing Iran conflict, has affected the availability of essential treatment chemicals, raising concerns among pool operators and regular swimmers.

Clubs and residential pools, particularly in south Kolkata, depend heavily on chlorine to maintain hygiene and safety standards. Chlorine reacts with water to form disinfectants that eliminate harmful bacteria and pathogens. However, rising transportation costs and supply chain disruptions have made it increasingly difficult to procure the chemical, leaving many facilities with no option but to suspend operations if the shortage persists.

The impact is already visible on the ground, with at least one club in north Kolkata informing members about the closure of its pool due to unavailability of purification chemicals. Attempts to use alternative methods have reportedly failed, and several regular swimmers have been informed about indefinite shutdowns. The issue has particularly affected daily users who rely on these facilities during the summer months.

Health experts have cautioned that operating pools without proper chemical balance can pose serious risks, including skin infections and other health hazards. While similar shutdowns were witnessed during the COVID-19 period, stakeholders remain hopeful that the current supply crisis will ease soon, allowing pools to reopen as demand rises sharply with increasing temperatures.