What is National Air Quality Index (NAQI)?
ü In general terms NAQI is referred as the pollution content in the air surrounding us or forecasted to be.
ü Transforms the complex air quality data of various pollutants into a single number (index value), nomenclature and color.
Motto: an initiative intended to enhance public awareness and involvement in efforts to improve air quality.
ü These categories are decided based on ambient concentration values of air pollutants and their likely health impacts (OR health breakpoints).
ü AQ sub-index and health impacts (OR health breakpoints) are evolved for eight pollutants (PM10, PM2.5, NO2, SO2, CO, O3, NH3, and Pb) for which short-term (upto 24-hours) National Ambient Air Quality Standards are prescribed.
Below are the AQI categories and health impacts for the eight pollutants:
National Air Quality Index launched in 2014 under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan mission in New Delhi.
App also developed named “SAMEER” by CPCB for detecting daily AQI of the areas
There are some limitations also like for real time AQI, the data is fed directly from the analyzers without scrutiny, thus it may not be used for statutory/legal purpose, operation of sensors and analyzers, their calibration, power cut issues, maintenance problems, disruption in continuous data flow and dissemination. However, in case of breakdowns, necessary actions are initiated immediately on fast track to resume the data collection.
Guidelines for public (Helping hand from public for reducing AQI and live peacefully):
1. Vehicle maintenance (e.g. get PUC checks, replace car air filter, maintain right tires pressure)
2. Following lane discipline & speed limits
3. Avoiding prolong idling and turning off engines at red traffic signals
4. During severe or very poor AQI, people should minimize travel; avoid using private vehicles and instead use public transport, bikes or walk, and carpool; use smaller vehicles
Source:https://cpcb.nic.in/National-Air-Quality-Index/
–
Neha
Jinit Bharambe
(Sr. Exe. Env- Technical Section)
