Air pollution and its Impact on Human Health – A Geospatial analysis of Hyderabad

Abstract

Although a number of physical activities (volcanoes, fire, etc.) may release different pollutants in the environment, anthropogenic activities are the major cause of environmental air pollution. Hazardous chemicals can escape to the environment by accident, but a number of air pollutants are released from industrial facilities and other activities and may cause adverse effects on human health and the environment. By definition, an air pollutant is any substance which may harm humans, animals, vegetation or material. As far as humans are concerned an air pollutant may cause or contribute to an increase in mortality or serious illness or may pose a present or potential hazard to human health. The main change in the atmospheric composition is primarily due to the combustion of fossil fuels, used for the generation of energy and transportation. Variant  air  pollutants  have been  reported,  differing  in  their  chemical  composition,  reaction properties, emission, persistence in the environment, ability to be transported in long or short distances and their eventual impacts on human and/or animal health. Hyderabad shares the same dilemma as that of other mega city in India. It has started to take action to control air pollution and seen results. While the particulate pollution continues to be the primary concern other pollutants – especially ozone – have also begun to rise. Studies have predicted significant lives savings if air pollution is controlled. The city needs aggressive and sustained action to protect public health