While the CPCB fixes permissible PM 2.5 levels at 60 micrograms /cubic metre in the air, the World Health Organization (WHO) fixes it at 10 micrograms /cubic metre, which was not met even on a single day of the measurement. Air quality in Eldams Road was found to be better than the other four locations with 10 out of 16 air quality readings here showing permissible levels. All these locations, however, recorded hazardous levels (above 180 micrograms /cubic metre) of PM 2.5 on January 13, the day of the Bhogi festival. Dr. Kumar said that PM 2.5 levels not only had an impact on the lungs, but could also affect the reproductive system and cause increase in blood pressure in case of prolonged exposure. Another separate assessment involved using a costly low-volume air sampler at Minjur, in addition to the air quality monitoring devices at the five locations, during December 2017 and January 2018.

Source: The Hindu January 30, 2018 20:14 UTC