The rapid growth of road transportation systems is significantly deteriorating air quality, with pollutants like PM10, NOX, and SO2 causing severe respiratory issues. This study evaluates the spatial and temporal patterns of these pollutants in Navi Mumbai and Thane from 2014 to 2023, using data from 23 monitoring stations. It focuses on seasonal variations, particularly during monsoon, pre-monsoon, post-monsoon, and winter, to understand the impact of meteorological conditions and human activities on pollution levels. GIS-based spatial interpolation methods were employed to analyze the data.
The findings reveal alarming PM10 levels across all stations, with some monsoon days showing moderate to poor air quality, contrary to expectations. Peak PM10 concentrations were recorded in Kharghar, Taloja, and Kalamboli during 2014–2015, while Nerul saw extreme values in 2017 and 2023. Post-monsoon data from 2014 highlighted high PM10 levels in Airoli and Glaxo premises. NOX levels rose significantly after 2020, particularly in industrial areas like Mahape and Nerul, while SO2 levels remained stable except for post-monsoon increases in Mahape and near Pimpaleshwar Mandir.
GIS mapping identified pollution hotspots, emphasizing the need for targeted control measures and continuous monitoring to address the adverse health impacts of air pollution in the region. The study underscores the urgency of implementing effective regulatory strategies to mitigate pollution.