PCB suggests study to spot air pollution sources in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram

Project may cost nearly ₹2 crore depending on size of city and its rate of development

The State Pollution Control Board (PCB) has proposed a year-long study to identify the sources and extent of air pollution in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram. The recommendation was placed before the Southern Bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on July 14 in the case related to air pollution and related issues in eight cities in the State. A detailed investigation into the sources and extent of air pollution in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram has been proposed as a pilot initiative before extending it to other regions. The tribunal had asked the authorities to ascertain the probable peak period and conduct the ambient air quality study to curb air pollution. They were also directed to carry out emission inventory of air pollutants and source apportionment studies to ascertain the nature of pollution. An expert committee constituted by the NGT had pointed out that the study to identify the sources and extent of pollution would take at least 15 months, as it included monitoring and air quality modelling.