Spatial and temporal assessment of air particulate matter pollution in Faisalabad

Air pollution, particularly particulate matter (PM), poses significant health risks, especially in rapidly urbanizing and industrial cities. This study aims to assess the levels of PM2.5 and PM10 across various locations in Faisalabad, compare them with national and international air quality standards, and evaluate their implications for public health. The data was collected from forty-nine (49) stations, including urban, industrial and residential areas, using the MicroDust Pro Real Time Aerosol Monitor. Most areas, including residential, commercial, and industrial zones, were observed to have PM2.5 and PM10 levels above the World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limits. It was recorded that PM pollution was in the order of industrial > commercial > residential areas. The results revealed that PM concentrations frequently exceeded the World Health Organization's (WHO) 24-hour limits, with PM2.5 ranging from 46.5 µg m-³ at University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) Agronomy Gate (L1) to 90.28 µg m-³ at Laari Adda (L43), and PM10 ranging from 49.52 µg m-³ at Green View Road (L10) to 108.5 µg m-³ at Daewoo Terminal (L5). The Air Quality Index (AQI) for most sites fell within the "Unhealthy" or "Hazardous" categories, with values reaching 380.72 at Laari Adda (L43). Industrial areas, especially textile hubs, exhibited the highest particulate matter concentrations, while transport emissions also contributed substantially. The Air Quality Index classified most regions as “Very Unhealthy” or “Hazardous,” underscoring serious public health risks. The study recommends the need to take prompt measures to decrease the amount of particulate matter with serious measures such as reinforcement of the laws controlling emissions by industries and traffic and the use of public health measures to prevent the effects of air pollution, especially to the vulnerable groups. Consequently, such information is essential for policymakers to develop proper air quality management in Faisalabad.