Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Air Quality Index near Keonjhar, Odisha was carried out based on monitoring of four ambient air quality parameters like PM₁₀, PM_2.5, SO₂ and NO₂ at eight different locations. Monitoring was carried out for one year starting from March, 2014 February 2015. APM-460 DXNL Respirable Dust Sampler and Fine Particulate Sampler APM-550 were used followed by cyclonic and impactor based technique for measurement of PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 respectively. Ambient air samples were continuously drawn in solution of potassium tetrachloromercurate for SO2 and sodium hydroxide and sodium arsenate for NO2. Statistical interpretation like ANOVA and DMRT test was done. The evaluation of Air Quality Index is important because it is a useful tool for the area based management of air pollution followed by subsequent health impact and to mitigate the pollution level. It is a measure of the ratio of the pollutants concentration to the status of ambient air in the places. The present investigation shows a significant variation in AQI with respect to variation in both stations and seasons. Industrial activity, mining activity, mineral transportation and allied activities are the major pollution sources in the area which determines the ambient air pollution status of the area. It was observed that the causes of variation in AQI in the study are multi-faced. As per AQI category most of the stations are either coming under light air pollution category or moderately air pollution category. As there is no literature available on the AQI study of the area, it can be used as a reference for future research in the area. 
Keywords: Air Quality Index, Ambient Air, Air Sampler, ANOVA, DMRT