GIS-Based Air Quality Index Spatial Model for Indian Cities

Abstract

Purpose—Generation of ‘Spatial and Gridded Air Quality Index Model’ using GIS to compute the AQI using the known ground data for the locations where there are no sensors at a selected grid size. The main objectives of the model are to integrate observations, to predict the unknown values and to make provision for future development without compromising with quality. Methodology—The model will be based on the GIS concept of point interpolation. It will use the geoprocessing tool—buffer, data management tool—join, spatial analyst tool—kriging interpolation. Inputs of the model will be the interpolated rasters of the ground measurements of the pollutants. The output will be the AQI map of the study area represented using six categories of AQI of India—‘Good’, ‘Satisfactory’, ‘Moderately Polluted’, ‘Poor’, ‘Very Poor’ and ‘Severe’. Practical Implications and Originality—The model generated can be used for any Indian city for daily, seasonal and annual analysis. It will also help to keep a check with the annual CPCB and WHO air quality standards.