State to study impact of air pollution in city

Health Hazard: Govt Wakes Up To The Need For Curbing Air & Noise Pollution

Mumbai: The increase in construction activity and use of vehicles is likely to have an impact on the quality of air we breathe. In order to gauge the effect of air pollution on our health, the state government plans to undertake a comprehensive study of ambient air quality, carried out in various parts of Mumbai over a period of three years. The urban air quality and health linkage study will also provide the much-needed database on air pollution.
    State environment secretary Valsa Nair-Singh said, “As we know, different sources contribute to air pollution but there is a tendency to equate air pollution in Mumbai with transportation. This study will help us find out the factors responsible for the increase in air pollution.’’
    The air pollution problem becomes complex as there are multiple sources like industries, automobiles, construction activities, etc. She said, “The study will be carried not only different parts of Mumbai, but also during different seasons. A Source Apportionment Study will be undertaken for this project to identify the sources and extent of their contribution to air pollution.’’
    It is necessary to conduct a scientific study of this nature as reasons for air pollution may vary from area to area. For example, in areas like Chembur and Mahul, the air pollution is attributed to the presence of refineries close to the suburb, whereas in other parts of Mumbai, it can be because of the boom in construction activity or traffic congestion. The data generated from this study will help the authorities introduce long and short-term measures to improve air quality.
    The Source Apportionment study will include preparation of emission inventory for different air pollutants, conduct the study of particulate matter and assess the impact of sources on air pollution.
    The National Environmental Engineering Research Institute will provide technical support for the study. The environment department has also decided to rope in the Environment Pollution Research Center of the KEM Hospital, which will conduct a health survey in different areas, besides asking people to undergo a pulmonary lung function test. An official of KEM hospital said, “A questionnaire will be distributed to the residents of an area. This will help us find any cause and effect on their health due to air pollution.’’