Comparative study of particulate matter in the transport microenvironment (buses) of Pakistan and UK

Abstract

Transport microenvironments can contain higher levels of particulate matter due to infiltration from the roads, vehicular exhaust and commuter's activities. The present study monitored PM, CO2, CO, temperature and relative humidity levels in diesel-powered buses in Pakistan and United Kingdom. Two routes of almost the same travelling distance were selected in Pakistan and the UK. Indoor air quality of the buses was monitored to determine the exposure faced by the commuters on inter-city journeys. While the observed levels in both countries were not in compliance with the WHO guidelines, levels of particulate matter were much higher in Pakistan than the concentrations in UK.