Effect of Seasonal and Meteorological Variability of Air Pollution in Singrauli Coalfield

Abstract

Singrauli coalfield is an intensely industrialized area in India, where coal mining takes place. The air quality parameters of particulate matter (PM) ≤ 2.5 µm, ≤ 10 µm, total suspended particles (TSP) (≤ 100 µm), NO₂ and SO₂ at mining and residential sites in this area have been monitored for 2 consecutive years (2016 and 2017). Concentration of particulate matter of both sizes (≤ 2.5 µm, ≤ 10 µm) was high at all sites and this is due to sources such as mining activities, incineration, and traffic. For all monitored air pollutants higher values were recorded in winter season than in summer and the rainy season. It is possible that meteorological factors such as wind speed and rainfall reduced ambient air pollution. Vertical variation of pollutants was recorded in the Dudhichua industrial–residential area. Higher ground level values for PM₁₀, TSP and NO₂ were recorded as it has also been noted in other high traffic areas. In general, the observed air quality parameters concentrations were slightly above the National Ambient Air Quality Standards of India. These results highlight the degraded air status in areas hosting both active coalfields and coal-burning facilities and as such the need for pollution abatement measures.