Written By: Dr Anitha Anchan | Updated : March 19, 2015 1:47 PM IST
Mumbai has an alarming 647 vehicles per kilometre of road length. According to experts a steady speed of 50 kmph is ideal to ensure low emission. But with congestion on the city's roads vehicles are forced to drive below the third gear, at speeds between 5 and 15 kmph. This leads to heavy emission of half-burnt gases and fuel which is the main reason for the heavy winter smog and the bad air in Mumbai. According to transport expert Ashok Datar, emissions from slow moving vehicles are especially harmful. Though most of the vehicles are BS-III/BS-IV compliant and many run on less polluting CNG, not phasing out old vehicles is the problem, say transport experts. To improve the quality of the city's air they suggest a host of measures like periodic pollution checks, congestion tax, car-pooling, etc.
What is smog?
Smog is basically smoky fog. It refers to a type of air pollution derived from emission from internal combustion engines of vehicles and industrial smokes. Smog is common in sunny, warm, dry climate cities with a large number of vehicles.
How is it formed?
Smog consists mainly of fine particles, gases like carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NO2), and ground level ozone, a harmful pollutant. The chemicals in the polluted air are highly reactive and oxidizing. They react in the atmosphere with sunlight to form secondary pollutants. Photochemical smog is formed by the combination of primary emissions and secondary pollutants. In warmer, sunnier weather the upper air is warm and inhibits vertical circulation causing smog to worsen during such times. Smog can build up to dangerous levels by staying for extended periods of time over densely populated areas. It can travel with the wind and affect sparsely populated areas as well.
Read more about causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of lung disease.
How does it affect our health?
Smog is a serious problem because it is harmful for health especially for children, elderly, and for people with heart and lung conditions like asthma and bronchitis. It can cause
Tips to avoid the smog:
Avoid exercising near heavy traffic areas, especially during peak hour. Avoid outdoor activities when smog levels are high, especially during the afternoon. If you have a heart/lung condition, consult your doctor about ways to protect your health from smog. Walk, ride your bicycle or use public transportation instead of your car whenever possible.
Read more about causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of asthma.
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