PM10 Pollution in India

Source:  DTE

Context: A new four-year analysis by Respirer Living Sciences revealed that all 11 major Indian metro cities, including Delhi and Patna, exceeded PM10 safety limits continuously from 2021–2024, indicating chronic air pollution.

About PM10 Pollution in India:

• What is PM10?

• • PM10 refers to particulate matter with a diameter of 10 microns or less, capable of entering the respiratory tract.
  • It includes dust, pollen, mold, and emissions from vehicles, industries, and construction activities.

• Characteristics of PM10:

• • Contains inorganic compounds, heavy metals, and biological material.
  • Includes both primary particles (directly emitted) and secondary particles (formed through chemical reactions in the air).
  • Sources include vehicular emissions, construction, industrial activities, stubble burning, and waste combustion.

• Permissible Limits in India:

• • As per National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) by CPCB:
    • Annual Average: 60 µg/m³
    • 24-Hour Average: 100 µg/m³

• Impacts of PM10:

• • Respiratory Issues: Inhalation leads to asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbation.
  • Cardiovascular Damage: Long-term exposure linked to heart disease and strokes.
  • Impaired Lung Growth: Children exposed to PM10 show reduced lung function development.
  • Environmental Damage: Reduces visibility, affects plant health, and damages buildings.
  • Increased Mortality Risk: IARC classified outdoor air pollution (PM inclusive) as carcinogenic in 2015.