Assessing the Impact of Reduced Vehicle Volume and Increased Speed on Air Quality in Qom City Using AERMOD

Mohammad Matin Roohbakhsh Panbeh

doi:10.63053/ijset.69

Authors

Mohammad Matin Roohbakhsh Panbeh Master's student in transportation engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology,Iran

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63053/ijset.69

Keywords:

Air pollution, AERMOD, Traffic, Pollutants, Modeling

Abstract

Urbanization and traffic congestion significantly worsen air pollution, leading to serious health risks. This study examines a scenario involving a 9% reduction in vehicle volume and a 4% increase in vehicle speed on the main roads of Area 6 in Qom City (District 2). The focus is on evaluating the impact of these changes on air quality, specifically concerning pollutants carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter (PM2.5), utilizing AERMOD software for modeling. Data were collected through various methods, including statistical analysis, field sampling within the area, archived records from the Road Administration and the Road Transport Organization of Iran, GPS data for Qom City, and local meteorological information. The results reveal that implementing the proposed traffic management scenario can lead to significant reductions in pollutant levels: CO levels could decrease by approximately 20.19%, NOx by 7.29%, and PM2.5 by 9.00%. These findings underscore the potential of strategic adjustments in traffic patterns to improve urban air quality. The insights gained from this study are valuable for policymakers aiming to tackle environmental challenges in rapidly urbanizing regions, highlighting the importance of effective traffic management in promoting healthier urban environments. Ultimately, enhancing air quality through targeted traffic interventions can improve public health outcomes and contribute to a more sustainable urban future.

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