India, May 26 -- A 25-year satellite study has identified Bihar and West Bengal as major particulate pollution hotspots in eastern India.

The study found that particulate matter pollution rose by more than 20% across the Indo-Gangetic Plain, the Himalayas and north-east India between 2000 and 2024.

Researchers said biomass burning, including rural fuel use and agricultural burning practices, is driving much of the growing pollution burden in the eastern Indo-Gangetic Plain and north-east India.

The findings also warn that emissions from the Indo-Gangetic Plain are affecting aerosol loading across the Himalayas.

A 25-year satellite study has identified Bihar and West Bengal as major particulate pollution hotspots, warning that the east...