Assessing Dust Pollution in Aurangabad: Environmental, Biological, and Human Health Implications Examined

Abstract

This research was undertaken in Aurangabad city to evaluate the effects of dust pollution on the environment and human well-being. Various locations were chosen to represent areas with high vehicle traffic, residential zones, industrial sites, and suburban regions, and the levels of respirable dust, including PM₁₀ and PM₂.₅, were measured. The dust samples were tested for the presence of heavy metals and microorganisms, and the leaves of plants were inspected for dust buildup and visible signs of damage. Furthermore, a survey was carried out among local residents to determine the health issues associated with dust pollution. The Geographic Information System (GIS) was utilized to map the spatial distribution of dust pollution throughout the city. The findings showed that the concentrations of PM₁₀ and PM₂.₅ exceeded the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) at all locations, with the highest levels found in industrial and high-traffic areas. The concentrations of PM₁₀ ranged from 117 µg/m³ to 180 µg/m³, and those of PM₂.₅ ranged from 77 µg/m³ to 121 µg/m³, surpassing the NAAQS limits at all monitoring sites, with the highest levels recorded in industrial and high-traffic areas. A survey of 72 residents of Aurangabad revealed that dust pollution has a significant impact on health and daily life, with common complaints including respiratory difficulties (46%), hypertension (44%), skin issues (46%), and fatigue (69%). Many residents take protective measures, such as wearing masks (43%), and support public awareness campaigns (69%). Reducing the number of vehicles on the road (57%) was seen as a crucial step in controlling pollution. The main sources of dust pollution were identified as construction activities, vehicle emissions, unpaved roads, and industrial operations, emphasizing the need for targeted strategies to mitigate the effects and protect public health and the urban environment.

Environmental concerns include dust and pollution, affecting human health and biology significantly.