According to Swiss organization IQAir's World Air Quality Report 2023, which city in Bihar has emerged as the world's most polluted metropolitan area in 2023?

Key Points

• Begusarai has been identified as the most polluted metropolitan area in the world in 2023 according to the Swiss organization IQAir's World Air Quality Report 2023.
• The city has recorded alarmingly high levels of air pollution, surpassing other metropolitan areas globally.
• The primary sources of pollution in Begusarai include industrial emissions, vehicular emissions, and dust from construction activities.
• Efforts are being made to address the pollution levels through various government and non-government initiatives aimed at reducing emissions and improving air quality.

Additional Information

• IQAir's World Air Quality Report:
  • It is an annual report published by IQAir, a Swiss air quality technology company.
  • The report provides a comprehensive analysis of air quality data from thousands of cities worldwide.
  • IQAir uses data from ground-based air quality monitoring stations to compile the report.
  • The report ranks cities based on the concentration of PM2.5 particles in the air, which are considered highly harmful to human health.
• PM2.5 Particles:
  • PM2.5 refers to particulate matter with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers.
  • These particles are small enough to penetrate deep into the respiratory system and enter the bloodstream.
  • Exposure to PM2.5 is associated with a range of health issues, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as premature death.
  • Major sources of PM2.5 include combustion processes (e.g., vehicle engines, industrial processes) and natural sources (e.g., wildfires, dust storms).
• Air Pollution and Health:
  • Air pollution is a significant environmental risk to human health.
  • Long-term exposure to polluted air can lead to chronic respiratory diseases, heart diseases, lung cancer, and can adversely affect the nervous system.
  • Vulnerable populations, such as children, elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, are at greater risk.
  • Improving air quality can significantly enhance public health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.