Transboundary sources dominated PM2.5 in Thimphu, Bhutan
S Sharma1, R Sharma1, S K Sahu2
1Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016 India.
International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology : IJEST
|July 6, 2021
Summary
Air pollution in Thimphu, Bhutan, is severe, with average PM2.5 levels three times the WHO limit. Transboundary pollution from India and Bangladesh significantly contributes to these elevated levels.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Atmospheric Chemistry
- Air Quality Monitoring
Background:
- PM2.5 concentrations in Thimphu, Bhutan, exceed WHO guidelines, posing significant health risks.
- Understanding pollution sources is crucial for effective air quality management in the region.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the primary source regions contributing to PM2.5 pollution in Thimphu, Bhutan.
- To analyze the impact of transboundary pollution on local air quality.
Main Methods:
- Utilized ground-based PM2.5 data from 2018-2020.
- Employed HYSPLIT back trajectory analysis to determine pollutant source regions.
Main Results:
- Average PM2.5 concentration was 32.47 µg/m³, exceeding WHO limits.
- Nonlocal emissions were found to dominate PM2.5 concentrations, with minimal reduction during the COVID-19 lockdown.
- Major contributing source regions identified: India (44%), Bangladesh (19%), Bhutan (19%), and China (16%).
Conclusions:
- Transboundary pollution significantly impacts PM2.5 levels in Thimphu.
- Effective air quality management requires addressing emissions from neighboring countries.
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