A Comprehensive Study On Winter Air Quality Of Dholpur City, Rajasthan
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Abstract
Air pollution refers to the contamination of indoor or outdoor environments by chemical, physical, or biological agents that alter the natural characteristics of the atmosphere. The present study investigates the winter air quality status of Dholpur City, Rajasthan, India, using the Air Quality Index (AQI) as a standardized assessment tool. Major sources contributing to air pollution in Dholpur include vehicular emissions, domestic fuel combustion, industrial activities, and seasonal biomass burning.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a numerical scale used worldwide to report daily air quality levels and associated health risks. It is calculated based on concentrations of major pollutants such as particulate matter (PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀), ozone (O₃), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and carbon monoxide (CO).
Daily AQI data collected from 15 December 2023 to 15 January 2024 indicate that air quality in Dholpur during winter predominantly falls in the Moderate to Poor categories. The findings suggest that winter meteorological conditions, including temperature inversion and reduced wind speed, contribute significantly to pollutant accumulation. A public awareness survey was also conducted to assess community knowledge regarding air pollution and AQI. While general awareness of air pollution was high, understanding of AQI standards was comparatively limited.
The study highlights the urgent need for mitigation measures, improved monitoring, and public awareness campaigns to prevent further deterioration of air quality in Dholpur.