Correct option is B
An AQI value of 200 falls under the
"Moderate" category as per the Indian National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Moderate air quality indicates that the air pollution level is acceptable, but there may be a moderate health concern for a small number of people sensitive to air pollution. For example, people with respiratory conditions like asthma may experience mild effects, but the general population is unlikely to be affected.
Information Booster ·
Air Quality Index (AQI): A single value derived from multiple pollutant concentrations to represent air quality. In India, the AQI considers pollutants like particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O₃), and ammonia (NH₃).
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AQI Categories in India:
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0-50 (Good): Minimal or no health risk.
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51-100 (Satisfactory): Minor discomfort to very sensitive individuals.
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101-200 (Moderate): Acceptable for most, with some impact on sensitive individuals.
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201-300 (Poor): Adverse effects on sensitive groups, with possible discomfort to the public.
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301-400 (Very Poor): Health warnings for the population, serious impact on sensitive groups.
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401-500 (Severe): Health emergencies, affecting the entire population.
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Moderate AQI Effects:
· Some discomfort for people sensitive to air pollution, such as children, the elderly, or those with respiratory issues.
· Increased chances of minor breathing discomfort on prolonged exposure.
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Pollutant Effects:
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PM10 & PM2.5: May irritate the lungs, particularly in those with asthma or bronchitis.
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NO₂: Causes respiratory irritation at high concentrations.
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Preventive Measures for Sensitive Individuals:
· Avoid prolonged outdoor exertion.
· Use masks during high pollution periods.
· Install air purifiers indoors.
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Regulatory Framework in India:
· The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is the nodal agency for air quality monitoring and reporting.
· Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS) are deployed across the country to measure real-time pollution levels.