Distribution of vehicular pollutants in street canyons of Varanasi, India: A different case

Abstract

In present study horizontal and vertical distribution of traffic-related pollutants (CO and SO2) within the street canyons in (CO and SO2) Varanasi, India was monitored. The results showed that average horizontal profiles of traffic-related pollutant concentrations within street canyon at leeward side were approximately same as that of windward side. However, the vertical concentration of both the pollutants decreases with height above the ground and study indicated that CO and SO2 concentrations at different heights below the roof showed clear vertical self-gradient. CO and SO2 concentration decreased with height and the minimum value occurred at the roof. It was concluded from the observed results that pollutants from vehicular exhaust emissions in the street canyon of Varanasi were evenly distributed. This result may be due to the fact that wind vortices are not formed. Therefore, urban planners can use this type of streets so that there is proper ventilation and dispersal of pollutants. © Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2008.