Here is a snapshot of the Air Quality Index at R K Puram, New Delhi on 11pm on 05/11/2016.
As is evident from this graph, the air quality in Delhi is bad because of high PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations. Noxious gases such as NO2 and SO2 are not causing air pollution in Delhi.
What is Particulate Matter?
Particulate Matter (PM) are microscopic solid particulates and liquid droplets suspended in the air. Some particles, such as dust, dirt, soot, or smoke, are large or dark enough to be seen with the naked eye. Others are smaller, such as PM10 – inhalable particles with diameters 10 micrometers and smaller. PM2.5 are fine inhalable particles, with diameters that 2.5 micrometers and smaller.
Where does PM come from?
The primary source is burning stuff. Petrol and diesel, coal, agricultural waste, garbage, stoves – all combustion generates particulate matter.
The secondary source is dust. This can be naturally occurring, or created by construction sites and the abrasion of roads by vehicles.
Fly ash and other waste products of combustion also create PM – this is a combination of the first and second factors.
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