Spatial Distribution and Health Risk Assessment of PM2.5 and PM10 in the Tejgaon Industrial Area in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Hazardous particles released into the atmosphere from natural and anthropogenic sources severely affect human health, particularly those near the Tejgaon Industrial Area. This study aimed to understand the spatial distribution patterns of PM2.5 and PM10, identify their sources, and assess the health risk associated with exposure in 26 sampling points within the area studied. The concentrations of both PM2.5 and PM10 varied depending on the location and time of day. The highest concentration of PM2.5 was 327 μg/m³, and PM10 was 443 μg/m³, both recorded in the evening at site S-16 (104, Shahed Tajuddin Ahmed Avenue). On the other hand, the lowest levels were found in the afternoon at site S-8 (373, Tejgaon), where PM2.5 was 38 μg/m³ and PM10 was 79.7 μg/m³. The hazard quotient (HQ) for PM2.5 and PM10 was consistently >1 at all sites, indicating significant non-carcinogenic risk. The HQ values ranged from 2.5 - 14 for PM2.5, and 2.1 - 8.9 for PM10, respectively. The estimated lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) for PM2.5 was estimated at 1.90×10-⁴ - 8.21×10⁻⁴ for children and 6×10-⁵ - 2.63×10-⁴ for adults, exceeding the acceptable threshold of 1×10-6 - 1×10-⁴. The highest ELCR was observed at S-16 (104, Shahed Tajuddin Ahmed Ave). Particulate matter concentrations were highest in high-traffic areas, with potential sources including vehicle emissions, road dust, construction, industrial activities, and open garbage dumping. PM2.5 and PM10 levels in the Tejgaon Industrial Area exceeded the WHO and DoE recommended limits. The study highlighted a clear link between rising vehicle numbers, industrial expansion, and constructional activists increased air pollution in the Tejgaon Industrial area.