QUE: Discuss the formation, effects, necessary suggestions and government efforts for mitigation of photochemical smog in detail.

• A recent study by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) found that the role of photochemical smog is significant in the continuous increase in air pollution.

• Photochemical smog is known as summer smog. It is produced when UV light from the sun interacts with nitrogen oxides present in the atmosphere.

• It is usually seen in densely populated cities and regions with hot climates. It is a type of air pollution.

• Composition

• Primary pollutants like nitrogen oxides (NOx) and VOCs are usually responsible for the formation of photochemical smog, while in some cases secondary pollutants like PAN, tropospheric ozone, aldehydes are responsible.

• Smog is formed by a complex series of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in the atmosphere as a result of sunlight, nitrogen oxides and air pollution.

• This type of smog is usually clearly visible in the early morning and summer afternoons.

• Effects

• Smog made of hydrocarbons and their mixtures causes eye irritation.

• Visibility is reduced, which can cause accidents.

• Ground-level ozone can be highly toxic to humans.

• Other negative symptoms include reduced vision and respiratory problems.

• It is also responsible for acid rain and eutrophication.

• Thus, it is responsible for damage to human health.

• Mitigation suggestions and government efforts

→ Obtaining energy from non-fossil energy sources such as nuclear energy, wind energy, solar energy, hydroelectric energy.

→ Promoting hydrogen energy-driven structures.

→ Odd-Even number system and smog tower in Delhi.

→ Reduction in greenhouse gas and harmful urban emissions through production and blending of biofuels instead of stubble burning.

→ Development of National Air Quality Index (AQI) for public information by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

→ Introduction of BS VI vehicles and schemes like FAME 1, FAME 2 to promote electric vehicles.

→ Implementation of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to tackle rising pollution in the capital Delhi.

→ Provisions for effective ban on thermal power plants and construction activities.

→ Launch of National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) to deal with the issue of air pollution on a national scale.

       Thus, economic, social and environmental development can be ensured by significantly reducing air pollution and providing positive health benefits to the nation’s manpower.