Assimilative capacity and pollutant dispersion studies for the industrial zone of Manali

Abstract

In this study the micro-meteorological parameters have been analyzed and the assimilative capacity of Manali is estimated on the basis of ventilation coefficient for the four seasons of the year 1998. Among the various seasons, summer has the lowest pollution potential. The industrial source complex short-term model has been used to predict the spatial distribution of three pollutants namely sulfur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen and suspended particulate matter. The model has been validated using the data measured at site. Statistical evaluation of the model indicates satisfactory performance. Using the model predictions, isopleths have been drawn. The northeastern part of Manali has been identified as vulnerable to high levels of pollution necessitating mitigation measures to be initiated in the region.