Topic: How Air Pollution Control Measures Works?

National Institute of Disaster Management, Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India

Date and Time: 10th November 2023, (Friday); 02:30 PM - 04:30 PM (IST)

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 WEBINAR REPORT
Topic: How Air Pollution Control Measure Works?
National Institute of Disaster Management, Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India
Date and Time: 10th November 2023, (Friday); 02:30 PM - 04:30 PM (IST)
Introduction
Air pollution refers to the presence of harmful substances in the air, which can have detrimental effects on
human health, the environment, and the overall well-being of living organisms. In the context of Delhi, India,
air pollution is a significant and persistent issue with a range of causes and effects.

Causes of Air Pollution in Delhi:

 Vehicle Emissions: The rapid increase in the number of vehicles, especially diesel-powered ones,
contributes significantly to air pollution. The combustion of fossil fuels in vehicles releases pollutants
such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
 Industrial Emissions: Delhi is an industrial hub, and industrial activities release pollutants into the air.
Many industries in and around Delhi burn fossil fuels and release various pollutants as byproducts of
their processes.
 Construction Activities: Construction sites contribute to air pollution through the release of dust
particles into the air. Unregulated construction practices, including improper waste disposal, worsen
the problem.
 Biomass Burning: The burning of crop residues and biomass for cooking and heating, especially during
the winter months, releases large amounts of pollutants into the atmosphere.
 Waste Burning: Open burning of municipal solid waste and plastic contributes to the release of harmful
pollutants, including toxic gases and particulate matter.
 Geographical Factors: Delhi's geographical location and weather conditions, particularly during the
winter months, contribute to the trapping of pollutants in the atmosphere, leading to the formation of
smog.
 Lack of Green Spaces: Decreased green cover and insufficient green spaces in the city limit the natural
processes that help in purifying the air.

Effects of Air Pollution in Delhi:

 Respiratory Problems: High levels of pollutants, especially PM and NOx, can lead to respiratory issues
such as asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory infections.
 Cardiovascular Diseases: Long-term exposure to air pollution is linked to an increased risk of
cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.
 Reduced Lung Function: Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable, and exposure to air
pollution can lead to reduced lung function over time.
 Cancer Risk: Prolonged exposure to certain air pollutants, such as benzene and formaldehyde, is
associated with an increased risk of cancer.
 Visibility Issues: High levels of particulate matter can reduce visibility, leading to traffic accidents and
disruptions in transportation.
 Environmental Impact: Air pollution has adverse effects on the environment, including damage to
vegetation, soil, and water bodies. It can also contribute to climate change.

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  Economic Impact: The health effects of air pollution result in increased healthcare costs and lost
productivity, impacting the overall economy.
In order to address air pollution in Delhi, comprehensive measures, including stricter emission standards,
promotion of cleaner technologies, waste management practices, and public awareness campaigns, are
essential. Collaborative efforts at the local, national, and international levels are necessary to tackle this
complex and multifaceted issue.

Air Pollution Control Measures

Air pollution control measures are implemented to reduce the concentration of pollutants in the air,
improving air quality and safeguarding public health and the environment. These measures can be applied
at various stages of the pollution generation and dispersion process. Some of the common air pollution
control measures are as follows:
a. Source Control:
 Emission Standards: Establishing and enforcing regulations that limit the amount of pollutants
industries and vehicles can release into the air.
 Technological Improvements: Encouraging the use of cleaner technologies and processes in
industrial facilities to minimize emissions.
b. Technological Solutions:
 Scrubbers: Industrial processes, particularly in power plants and factories, can use scrubbers to
remove pollutants from exhaust gases. Scrubbers work by passing the exhaust through a liquid
(usually water or a chemical solution) that captures and removes pollutants.
 Catalytic Converters: In vehicles, catalytic converters can be employed to convert harmful
pollutants in the exhaust gases into less harmful substances.
c. Particulate Control:
 Particulate Filters: These are used to capture and remove particulate matter (PM) from industrial
processes and vehicle exhaust.
 Electrostatic Precipitators: These devices use an electric charge to remove particulate matter from
flue gases in industrial settings.
d. Fuel Quality Improvement:
 Low-Sulfur Fuels: Using low-sulfur fuels can reduce sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions, especially in
power plants and industries.
 Alternative Fuels: Promoting the use of cleaner alternative fuels, such as natural gas or renewable
energy sources, can reduce emissions from combustion processes.
e. Regulatory Measures:
 Zoning and Land Use Planning: Designating specific areas for industrial activities and restricting
certain high-emission industries from operating in densely populated areas.
 Emission Trading Systems: Allowing companies to buy and sell emissions allowances, encouraging
industries to reduce emissions to meet regulatory limits.
f. Public Awareness and Education:
 Public Campaigns: Raising awareness about the effects of air pollution and encouraging individuals
and businesses to adopt cleaner practices.
 Compliance Monitoring: Regular monitoring and reporting of air quality, along with penalties for
non-compliance, can act as a deterrent for polluters.

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 g. Green Spaces and Urban Planning:
 Increasing Vegetation: Planting trees and creating green spaces can help absorb pollutants and
improve overall air quality.
 Urban Design: Planning cities to minimize congestion and encourage public transportation can
reduce vehicle emissions.

h. International Cooperation:
 Global Agreements: Participation in international agreements and protocols aimed at addressing
cross-border air pollution issues.
It's important to note that a combination of these measures is often necessary to effectively control air
pollution. The success of these measures depends on the collaboration of government bodies, industries,
communities, and individuals in adopting and implementing sustainable practices.

Air Quality Assessment Process

Air quality is typically assessed based on the concentration of specific air pollutants. The Air Quality Index
(AQI) is a commonly used numerical scale that provides a standardized way to communicate air quality to
the public. The AQI takes into account multiple pollutants, and the final index value represents the overall
air quality level. The general overview of how air quality is calculated using the AQI:

a. Select Pollutants:
 The AQI is calculated based on the concentrations of specific pollutants, including ground-level ozone
(O3), particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and carbon
monoxide (CO).
b. Determine Individual AQI for Each Pollutant:
 For each pollutant, the concentration is converted into a sub-index using a specific formula. Different
countries may use slightly different formulas. The sub-index values are then determined based on
concentration ranges for each pollutant.
c. Identify the Dominant Pollutant:
 The overall AQI is determined by the highest sub-index value among the individual pollutants. This is
referred to as the "Dominant Pollutant."
d. Calculation of Overall AQI:
 The overall AQI is then calculated using the sub-index value of the dominant pollutant. This is done using
a scale that categorizes air quality into different levels, such as "Good," "Moderate," "Unhealthy," and
so on.
e. Communicate Air Quality Level:
 Once the overall AQI is calculated, it is associated with a qualitative description that communicates the
air quality level to the public. This might include categories like "Good," "Moderate," "Unhealthy for
Sensitive Groups," and "Unhealthy."

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 f. Provide Health Recommendations:
 Along with the AQI level, health recommendations are often provided to inform the public about
potential health effects and appropriate actions to take. These recommendations may include
advisories for sensitive groups or suggestions to reduce outdoor activities.
 The specific formulas and concentration ranges used to calculate sub-indices may vary by country or
region, as different places may have distinct air quality standards. It's important to refer to the
guidelines and methodologies established by the relevant environmental protection agencies or
organizations in a specific location.
Additionally, some online tools and air quality monitoring platforms provide real-time AQI information for
specific areas, allowing individuals to access current air quality levels and make informed decisions about
outdoor activities.
Air Quality Control Measures through Sensor Intervention

Air quality control measures through sensor applications involve the deployment of various types of sensors
to monitor different air pollutants. Here are some examples of sensors commonly used for air quality
monitoring, along with explanations of their applications are as follows:

a. Particulate Matter (PM) Sensors:

 Example Sensor: Plantower PMS series, Nova PM SDS011
 Application: PM sensors measure the concentration of airborne particles of different sizes (PM1.0,
PM2.5, PM10). These sensors are crucial for assessing the levels of fine particulate matter, which
can have significant health impacts. High concentrations of PM are often associated with vehicle
emissions, industrial processes, and combustion activities.
b. Gas Sensors:
 Example Sensor: Alphasense CO-B4, MQ series for various gases
 Application: Gas sensors detect specific gases such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide
(NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone (O3). Elevated levels of these gases can be harmful to human
health and the environment. Gas sensors are commonly used near traffic areas, industrial zones,
and locations prone to specific gas emissions.
c. Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Sensors:
 Example Sensor: Figaro TGS series
 Application: VOC sensors measure the presence of volatile organic compounds, which can be
emitted from various sources such as vehicle exhaust, industrial processes, and household products.
Monitoring VOC levels helps identify indoor and outdoor air quality issues and potential sources of
pollution.
d. Weather and Environmental Sensors:
 Example Sensor: Bosch BME280, DHT series
 Application: Weather sensors measure temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure. These
sensors provide contextual data that can influence air quality. For example, high temperatures and
low wind speeds can contribute to the buildup of pollutants. Integrating weather data with air
quality measurements enhances the understanding of pollution patterns.
e. Air Quality Index (AQI) Sensors:
 Example Sensor: Various sensors integrated into commercial AQI monitors
 Application: AQI sensors calculate an overall air quality index based on the concentrations of
different pollutants. This index provides a simplified and easily understandable representation of
air quality, making it accessible to the general public. Users can receive real-time AQI updates
through mobile apps or websites.
f. Satellite-based Remote Sensing:

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  Example Sensor: MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectro radiometer)
 Application: Satellite-based sensors can monitor large geographic areas and provide valuable data
on regional air quality. These sensors are particularly useful for tracking wildfires, industrial
emissions, and transboundary pollution. They complement ground-based sensors by offering a
broader perspective.
g. Low-Cost Sensor Arrays:
 Example Sensor: Air quality monitoring kits using multiple low-cost sensors
 Application: These sensor arrays combine various low-cost sensors to monitor multiple pollutants
simultaneously. While individual sensors may have limitations in accuracy, the combination of
sensors can provide a more comprehensive understanding of air quality. These kits are often used
in citizen science projects to engage communities in air quality monitoring.

h. Electrochemical Sensors:
 Example Sensor: City Technology sensors for various gases
 Application: Electrochemical sensors are commonly used for detecting gases such as carbon
monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. They are known for their high sensitivity and ability
to provide real-time data. These sensors are suitable for applications where quick response times
are crucial.
Integration of these sensors into a comprehensive air quality monitoring system, coupled with data analysis
and public outreach, allows for effective air quality control measures. For instance, if PM levels are
consistently high in a specific area, authorities can implement measures to reduce emissions from traffic or
industrial activities. Public awareness campaigns can also be initiated to encourage behavioral changes that
contribute to improved air quality.

Key Words: Emission Standards, Quality Improvements, Air Quality Index, Pollution Control Measures, etc

Purpose of the Webinar

The webinar, titled "How Air Pollution Control Measures Work," serves as a crucial platform aimed at
equipping participants with a thorough comprehension of the methodologies and tactics utilized to
counteract the escalating crisis of air pollution. Tailored to the pressing circumstances of Delhi's pollution,
this webinar is meticulously crafted to not only educate but also galvanize a diverse array of stakeholders.
By focusing on education, awareness, and practical strategies, the webinar seeks to mobilize a collective
effort toward improving air quality and safeguarding the health and well-being of the local population.

Objectives:

 To understand the causes and effects of air pollution.

 To emphasize the urgency of addressing air pollution through air pollution control measures.
 To elucidate short and long term solution oriented approach.
 To provide guidance on emergency preparedness and response for air pollution.
 To promote community-based initiatives and sustainable practices.
 To provide a knowledge platform for the participants to connect with experts, share experiences,
and expand their professional networks in this domain.

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Broad Points Covered

The webinar titled "How Air Pollution Control Measures Work" encompassed several key topics, providing
a comprehensive overview of strategies and technologies aimed at enhancing air quality. The following
were the major points covered during the session:

 LoRA Technology Introduction: Insightful exploration of LoRA (Long Range) technology and its
relevance to air quality improvement.
 Particulate LoRA Sensors Assessment: Examination of the effectiveness of particulate LoRA sensors
in the context of enhancing air quality assessment.
 Air Quality Monitor Functionality Process Flow: In-depth discussion on the process flow of air
quality monitors, elucidating their functionality and significance.
 Solar Energy Reflection and Radiation Process Flow: Detailed exploration of the process flow
associated with solar energy reflection and radiation and its impact on air quality.
 Fundamental Strategies for Environmental Improvement: Highlighting fundamental strategies
aimed at enhancing the environment and subsequently improving public health.
 Wind Flow Patterns in Urban Areas: Analysis of wind flow patterns specific to urban environments
and their role in air quality dynamics.
 Air Pollution Control Measures: Overview of various measures implemented to control and
mitigate air pollution, emphasizing their significance.
 WHO Air Quality Guidelines: Examination and discussion of the air quality guidelines set by the
World Health Organization (WHO), providing a benchmark for assessment.

This comprehensive webinar offered valuable insights into the multifaceted aspects of air quality
management, ranging from technological solutions to fundamental environmental strategies, all geared
towards fostering a healthier and cleaner living environment.

Session’s Summary

The commencement of the webinar was marked by Avipsha Mohanty, a Young Professional in the Resilient
Infrastructure Division at NIDM, extending a warm welcome and providing context to the audience. In her
introductory remarks, she not only greeted the expert speaker and participants but also articulated the
significance of the webinar. Avipsha offered insights into the broader context of air pollution and its control
measures, setting the stage for the upcoming discussions. Her introductory remarks included a succinct
preview of the webinar's agenda, offering a brief overview of the topics that would be covered, thereby
establishing a framework for the audience to navigate the forthcoming presentations and discussions.

Introductory Session on LoRA Technology Sensors Intervention to improve air quality by Mr. YK Gauba,
CEO, MD, COUNTRY HEAD, MUTELCOR GMBH and Mr. S.K. Mandal, CEO & CTO, Hekabot Echotech Pvt.
Ltd., Ghaziabad

Mr. YK Gauba: He illuminated the audience on the introduction of LoRA (Long Range) technology and its
application through sensors to address the challenge of air pollution. Providing a detailed insight into the
sensor implantation process flow, he explained how these sensors play a crucial role in monitoring and
curbing air pollution. Emphasizing the strategic placement of LoRA gateways, likened to smoke detectors,
in various polluted areas, he illustrated how this technology serves as an effective tool for early detection
and intervention. Drawing attention to a pertinent case study focused on Delhi, Mr. Gauba underscored the

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practical application of LoRA technology. Specifically, he outlined 15 parameters categorized for assessing
the parts per million (ppm) levels, offering a comprehensive approach to understanding and addressing air
quality concerns in the region. In further support of the LoRA technology's efficacy, Mr. Gauba presented a
noteworthy example of carbon dioxide level assessment in Nehru Place, Delhi using a dashboard to visually
represent the data. This practical demonstration not only showcased the capabilities of LoRA technology
but also provided a tangible example of how real-time monitoring contributes to a data-driven approach in
managing and mitigating air pollution.

Mr. S.K. Mandal: He provided

a focused explanation of the
application of LoRA sensors in
measuring air quality across
different locations,
employing data mining
devices for a comprehensive
analysis. Specifically, he
detailed the time intervals at
which the LoRA sensors
capture real-time data,
emphasizing the importance
of timely and frequent
updates for accurate air
quality monitoring.
Furthermore, the speaker underscored the significance of radius coverage when deploying LoRA sensors in
targeted areas. By highlighting the reach and scope of these sensors, he elucidated how they can efficiently
cover specific regions, enabling a thorough assessment of air quality dynamics within the designated areas.

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This insight into the spatial and temporal aspects of LoRA sensor deployment showcased its practical utility
in creating a robust and detailed air quality monitoring system.

Main Session: Prof. Chandan Ghosh, Head of Resilient Infrastructure Division, NIDM, Ministry of Home
Affairs, Govt. of India

Prof. Chandan Ghosh meticulously addressed a spectrum of critical aspects related to air quality and
pollution control during the presentation. Initially, he provided insights into the solar energy radiation
workflow process, unraveling the intricacies of how solar energy interacts with the environment and
influences air quality dynamics. A noteworthy highlight of the discussion was the introduction of the oxygen
café concept, which originated in London during the 1980s. He expounded on this innovative concept,
exploring its potential implications for tackling air quality issues and enhancing overall well-being.

Wind flow patterns in urban areas emerged as another focal point, with the Prof. Ghosh emphasizing the
importance of understanding these patterns for a comprehensive grasp of pollutant dispersion and
movement within city environments. Odour monitoring measures were discussed as a significant
component, underscoring the importance of addressing not only visible pollutants but also those affecting
sensory perceptions. This holistic approach contributes to a more nuanced understanding of air quality.

He delved into the vital subject of air quality-wise traffic monitoring, stressing the need for tailored
strategies to mitigate pollution associated with vehicular activities. This discussion aimed to explore ways
to optimize traffic management for environmental benefits.

A comprehensive segment was dedicated to tools used for calculating air quality. The speaker shed light on
various instruments and devices crucial for quantifying pollutant levels, enabling informed decision-making
in pollution control efforts.

Technical specifications for masks capable of withstanding PM 2.5 were outlined, offering practical insights
into protective measures individuals can adopt to safeguard themselves from particulate matter in the air.

Transitioning seamlessly, the speaker then provided an in-depth exploration of air pollution control
measures. This segment covered a range of strategies and technologies implemented to curb and manage
air pollution, encompassing both preventive and corrective measures.

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Towards the conclusion of the presentation, he discussed the air quality guidelines set by the World Health
Organization (WHO). These guidelines serve as a crucial benchmark for assessing and regulating air quality
standards globally, ensuring a standardized approach to environmental well-being.

In a compelling addition, Prof. Ghosh highlighted a scenario illustrating the dependency on petroleum
products, utilizing the metaphorical concept of a Petroleum Tree. This visual aid served to underscore the
intricate relationship between human activities, energy sources, and their impact on air quality, providing a
thought-provoking perspective on sustainable practices.

Key Takeaways

The webinar delivered significant insights into the intricacies of managing air quality. The major key
takeaways include:
 LoRA Technology Integration: Understanding the integration of LoRA technology and its pivotal role
in air quality improvement strategies.
 Particulate LoRA Sensors Efficacy: Recognition of the effectiveness of particulate LoRA sensors for
accurate and real-time assessment of air quality parameters.
 Air Quality Monitoring Process Understanding: Gaining insights into the process flow of air quality
monitors, enhancing comprehension of their functionality and operational significance.
 Solar Energy Dynamics Impact: Acknowledging the impact of solar energy reflection and radiation
processes on air quality, providing a nuanced perspective on environmental dynamics.
 Fundamental Environmental Improvement Strategies: Emphasizing fundamental strategies for
environmental enhancement to promote better public health outcomes.
 Urban Wind Flow Patterns Significance: Recognizing the importance of understanding wind flow
patterns in urban areas and their contribution to air quality dynamics.
 Comprehensive Air Pollution Control Measures: Appreciating a diverse range of measures and
techniques employed for the control and mitigation of air pollution, addressing various sources and
pollutants.
 Adherence to WHO Air Quality Guidelines: Highlighting the importance of aligning air quality
management efforts with the guidelines set by the World Health Organization, ensuring a
standardized and globally recognized benchmark.
 Tools to measure Air Quality: When selecting a tool for air quality measurement, it's essential to
consider factors such as the specific pollutants of interest, the intended application (indoor or
outdoor), and the level of precision required for the analysis. Additionally, calibration and
maintenance of these instruments are crucial to ensure accurate and reliable results.
These key takeaways collectively provide a holistic understanding of the webinar's subject matter, offering
valuable knowledge and insights for individuals and organizations engaged in air quality management and
environmental stewardship.

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List of Participants

S.N. Participants Name Email Address

1 Nirmal Paul [email protected]
2 Akhil Unni [email protected]
3 Manasvi Bharadwaj [email protected]
4 Ashok Kumar Dhingra [email protected]
5 Arunodya Kumar [email protected]
6 Mahesh Bara [email protected]
7 Varsha N [email protected]
8 Lakshmi Narayana Nagisetty [email protected]
9 Saswati [email protected]
10 Mukesh Kumar [email protected]
11 Deepankar Chaudhary [email protected]
12 Sudhir Kumar Mallik [email protected]
13 Tushar Soni [email protected]
14 Barot Hiteshkumar R. [email protected]
15 Prof. Prem Raj Pushpakaran [email protected]
16 Aditya Dubey [email protected]
17 Arun Kumar Jha [email protected]
18 Er. Deepak Tiwari Dsk [email protected]
19 Subankar Biswas [email protected]
20 Dr. Prasanth S [email protected]
21 Md Gulzar Alam [email protected]
22 G Madhusudan [email protected]
23 Er.B.Jeyaprakash Me., [email protected]
24 Rajeev Yadav [email protected]
25 Priyanka Wankhede [email protected]
26 Anupam Yadav [email protected]
27 Abhilash Sharma [email protected]
28 Prof.Dr.I.Manavalan Ilakkuvan [email protected]
29 Sarthak Garg [email protected]
30 Chanda Kumari [email protected]
31 Virendrakumar M Thakkar [email protected]
32 Navdeep Singh [email protected]
33 Usha [email protected]
34 A. K. M. Thohidul Alam Khan [email protected]
35 Shiv Kumar [email protected]
36 Rajneesh Rangra [email protected]
37 Sudhanshu [email protected]
38 Aditya [email protected]
39 Atul Leo [email protected]
40 Neelrajsinh Solanki [email protected]
41 Disaster Management UDUPI [email protected]
42 Indira Kamsar [email protected]

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Participants Category

In this webinar, participants from multiple domains attended the session. It constitutes of 12% of Govt. Job,
3% from NGO/CSOs, 22% from private sector, 4% from public sector, 35% were students, 11% of the
participants were self-employed and 13% of the participants were from other domain.

Certificate

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