Analyzing the ambient air quality along the congestion spots of urban corridors Available to Purchase

The rapid urbanization has led to an increase in population and vehicle ownership which results in degradation of urban air quality. Due to the lack of adequate road infrastructure to cater the increasing demand of vehicles and inappropriate public transportation facility, the urban road networks experience frequent traffic congestion. Traffic congestions causing higher vehicular emissions resulting in air-pollution hotspots in cities. Air pollution can cause adverse effects on human health and environment. The present study is to estimate the emission black spots of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city in the state of Kerala. This study was carried out along the stretch two typical urban corridors of the city. Speed Performance Index was used to evaluate the congestion indices trajectory speed profile data collected. The ambient air quality study was conducted on identified congested spots. The pollutants considered for the analysis are PM10, PM2.5 and CO. Mathematical models were formulated to forecast the air pollutant concentration for the data from a continuous monitoring station of the city. The results shows that the PM10 values at the congested spots exceeded the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). This study helps to know about the traffic congestion conditions of the urban road networks. It also helps to develop a baseline data for developing urban air quality management plan.