Level of air pollution in the city is higher than it was in previous pre-monsoon assessments. Ambient air quality prior to onset of rains, according to report released by the Indian Institute of Toxicology Research on World Environment Day, does not bode well for health of Lucknowites. “Pollutant concentrations in terms of respirable particulate matter (RSPM), including heavy metal (traces) nickel, in urban atmosphere of Lucknow has been found to be two to three times higher than national standards, while on the other hand, concentration of gaseous pollutants sulphur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen (SO2 & NOx) were well below the prescribed National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) at all the locations,” said the study report. Talking to TOI, Dr Shyamal Chandra Barman head of environment monitoring division of IITR said, “continuous rise of population and growing urban activities, along with lack of suitable measures for air pollution control, are primary reasons for increase in air pollution.” He said “densely populated areas leave hardly any space in the city for air to circulate. Air pollution is caused by construction activities which contribute fine particles to the air. Diesel operated automobiles and metals used in making batteries like lead and nickel doesn’t get dispersed in the air, raising the level of pollution.”

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