An Investigation Study on PM2.5 in Ambient Air: A CaseStudy of Karachi, Pakistan

Abstract

The susceptibility of ambient air quality is due to particle pollution from PM2.5, which is a great alarm when levels in the air are unhealthy. Inhalation in unhealthy levels of PM_2.5 can raise the risk of health problems and also decrease visibility and cause the air to appear obscure. This research investigates the continuous accumulation of PM_2.5 at hourly interval using an automated air monitoring instrument in 50 distinct locations' in the five districts of Karachi, Pakistan. Data were collected over a period, from January 1^st until June 30^th, 2022. During the research study duration, the PM_2.5 concentration exhibited variability within the range of 2 to 374 μg/m³. The results revealed that the minimum and maximum PM_2.5 concentrations in District South was 3 μg/m³ and 374 μg/m³ respectively followed by District Central (3 μg/m³ , 337 μg/m³), District West (3 μg/m³, 349 μg/m3), District East (2μ g/m³, 343 μg/m³) and District Malir (2 μg/m³, 199μg/m³) correspondingly. The entire sampling data 24-hours average was 114.88 μg/m3compared to the permissible limits of Sindh Environmental Quality Standards (SEQS-2016) 75 μg/m³ and World Health Organization (WHO) air quality guidelines 25 μg/m³ . The outcomes emphasize the necessity for implementing strict emission control protocols and promoting cleaner energy sources to mitigate the health risks associated with PM_2.5 exposure. This research work underscores the urgency of air quality management strategies in Karachi, aiding policy makers and stakeholders in devising effective mitigation measures. Addressing the challenges posed by high-level PM_2.5 can lead to significant improvements in the overall well-being and quality of life of the city's inhabitants