Review of air quality in Pune city

Abstract

Air Pollution is the condition in which air is contaminated by foreign substances, or the substances themselves. Air pollution consists of gaseous, liquid, or solid substances that, when present in sufficient concentration, for a sufficient time, and under certain conditions, tend to interfere with human comfort, health or welfare, and cause environmental damage. The most widespread pollutants include carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds(VOCS), ozone, nitrogen dioxide(NOx), sulfur dioxide(SO2) and fine and coarse particles. These substances are used as indicators of air quality in cities. Air pollution causes a number of health problems that include respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis, or increase the risk of respiratory problems. According to a study by Environment Status Report (ESR) in July 2010, air pollution in Pune has become a serious problem. The respiratory suspended particulate matter (PM10) in the air is more than the standard national level. About 93,000 commercial properties which include hotels, malls and hospitals emit 204 tons PM10 every year. The major cause of pollution in Pune is transport. Its emission has increased by 12.15% in the past three years. At present there are 31 National Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (NAQMS) in Maharashtra .In Pune there are four which include Pimpari- Chinchwad, Bhosari, Nal Stop, Karve Road and Swarget. There is measurement of SO2,NOx and RSPM daily.