Atmospheric aerosols and urban chemistry: assessing the link between air pollution index and traffic volume in Greater Noida

This study aims to address existing gaps in air quality research by assessing the association between Air Quality Index (AQI) and traffic volume across eight road sites in Greater Noida, India, using the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) as benchmarks over multiple seasons. Notably, this work is one among several systematic studies to comprehensively correlate AQI and traffic patterns in Greater Noida, enhancing the understanding through multi-seasonal data. Ambient air pollutants including SO₂, NO₂, PM₁₀, and PM₂₅ were monitored at eight different sites throughout Greater Noida for one year. The Exceedance Factor technique and Air Quality Index methodology were applied to evaluate air quality status. Traffic volume was manually counted per hour at each site. Pearson Linear Correlation was used to analyze the relationship between traffic density and average AQI. Particulate matter levels consistently exceeded the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines. AQI ratings varied from unhealthy to hazardous, with a strong positive correlation (r = 0.909) observed between AQI values and traffic density. Seasonal variation affected pollutant concentrations, with worse air quality typically observed in winter. Findings emphasize the significant impact of vehicular traffic on ambient air quality and associated health risks in rapidly urbanizing regions. The study highlights the need for comprehensive real-time monitoring and robust air quality management strategies to mitigate pollution and protect public health in Greater Noida and similar urban settings.