Air pollution in North India drifts south; Is Kerala at risk too?

The haze of North India’s pollution apparently does not stop at its borders. A recent study shows that the toxic air travels hundreds of kilometres to impact the skies of South India as well. The study, conducted over three years by Dr Saleem Ali, Assistant Professor in the Physics Department of Amal College of Advanced Studies, Nilambur and a native of Kacheripparambu in Kottoppadam, has drawn significant attention.

What the study highlights
The findings have been published in the journal Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics. The study highlights that anticyclonic winds formed during winter are carrying pollutants from North India, thereby lowering air quality across South Indian states. This first-of-its-kind study in the country was carried out in collaboration with IIT Madras and SRM University, Chennai.

How the dust particles affect us
Researchers found that dust particles persisting 1 to 3 kilometres above the Earth’s surface raise temperatures by nearly 2 degrees and increase pollution levels by about 60%. Such transboundary pollution presents a significant challenge for relatively less-polluted states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Dr Saleem Ali noted that follow-up studies are being conducted to understand the impact of this pollution on Kerala’s atmosphere and geography.

The long-distance transport of pollutants may also trigger respiratory health issues. In addition to local interventions, collective action at both national and international levels is crucial to address the problem. The research was led by IIT Madras Professor Chandan Sarangi and SRM University, Chennai, Professor Sanjaykumar Mehta.