Variability of aerosol optical depth over indian subcontinent using modis data

Abstract

High AOD is observed over the Ganga basin throughout the year unlike southern India, is alarming as this basin is one of the most productive basins of Indian subcontinent having population of more than 460 million. AOD is found to be increasing rapidly since 2000 in summer season that may cause adverse effect to the agricultural crops and also to the human health. Increased aerosol loading may likely affect the rainfall which is responsible for the observed drought conditions over the Indian subcontinent. Detailed analysis of AOD, crop yields and rainfall data are required to understand the impact of increasing aerosol loading over the Indian subcontinent.