Rising Ground-Level Ozone Pollution Emerges as a Concern in Delhi

¨     Ground-level ozone has emerged as a major pollution concern in Delhi.

¨     It is ozone formed near the Earth’s surface.

¨   It is produced through chemical reactions involving nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight.

¨     Ground-level ozone is different from stratospheric ozone.

¨     Stratospheric ozone occurs in the upper atmosphere and forms the ozone layer.

¨     Ground-level ozone is a secondary pollutant.

¨     It is not emitted directly from any source.

¨     Pollutants released from vehicles, industries, power plants, and other combustion sources contribute to its formation.

¨     Strong sunlight and warm temperatures promote ozone formation.

¨     Ozone formation is more common during the summer season.

¨     In urban areas like Delhi, high traffic density and industrial emissions increase ozone levels.

¨     Stagnant air conditions support the build-up of ozone and other photochemical pollutants.