AYUSHMAN BAJPAI AND SIDDHARTHA SHUKLA
Abstract
This study provides a comprehensive assessment of environmental air quality in Sitapur, India, using Gaussian Plume Modelling (GPM), a widely recognized air dispersion model. Sitapur, a district experiencing rapid urbanization and industrial growth, faces a significant challenge in managing rising pollution levels. The continuous increase in vehicular traffic, unregulated industrial emissions, and biomass burning have contributed to the deterioration of air quality, posing health risks to residents. The study focused on predicting the spatial and temporal distribution of key air pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), sulphur dioxide (SO4), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and carbon monoxide (CO2) across different locations within the district. Gaussian Plume Modelling was selected due to its effectiveness in simulating steady-state pollution dispersion under varying meteorological conditions, such as wind speed, direction, and atmospheric stability. The model was applied to identify pollution hotspots and estimate pollutant concentrations at critical points, including residential, commercial, and industrial zones. To validate the modelâs predictions, the results were compared against real-time air quality monitoring data obtained from various sources, including government-operated stations and independent monitoring networks. The comparison allowed for assessing the modelâs accuracy in estimating pollutant levels and understanding its limitations in predicting air quality variations. Additionally, the study evaluated pollutant concentrations against the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) to identify areas exceeding permissible limits and assess the potential health impacts on local communities. The findings of this research highlight the presence of significant pollution clusters, particularly near industrial zones and high-traffic corridors. The modelâs output also reveals seasonal variations, with pollutant concentrations peaking during winter months due to temperature inversions and decreased dispersion. The study underscores the need for targeted air pollution control strategies, emphasizing stricter emission regulations, improved urban planning, and public awareness campaigns. Overall, this research contributes valuable insights into the dynamics of air pollution in Sitapur and offers recommendations for policymakers to mitigate the adverse effects of poor air quality on public health.