Spatial Distribution and Health Risk Assessment of PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ in the Tejgaon Industrial Area in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Hazardous particles released into the atmosphere from natural and anthropogenic sources severely affect human health, particularly those near the Tejgaon Industrial Area. This study aimed to understand the spatial distribution patterns of PM_2.5 and PM₁₀, identify their sources, and assess the health risk associated with exposure in 26 sampling points within the area studied. The concentrations of both PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ varied depending on the location and time of day. The highest concentration of PM_2.5 was 327 μg/m³, and PM₁₀ was 443 μg/m³, both recorded in the evening at site S-16 (104, Shahed Tajuddin Ahmed Avenue). On the other hand, the lowest levels were found in the afternoon at site S-8 (373, Tejgaon), where PM_2.5 was 38 μg/m³ and PM₁₀ was 79.7 μg/m³. The hazard quotient (HQ) for PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ was consistently >1 at all sites, indicating significant non-carcinogenic risk. The HQ values ranged from 2.5 – 14 for PM_2.5, and 2.1 – 8.9 for PM₁₀, respectively. The estimated lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) for PM_2.5 was estimated at 1.90×10^–⁴ – 8.21×10⁻⁴ for children and 6×10^–⁵ – 2.63×10^–⁴ for adults, exceeding the acceptable threshold of 1×10^-6 – 1×10^–⁴. The highest ELCR was observed at S-16 (104, Shahed Tajuddin Ahmed Ave). Particulate matter concentrations were highest in high-traffic areas, with potential sources including vehicle emissions, road dust, construction, industrial activities, and open garbage dumping. PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ levels in the Tejgaon Industrial Area exceeded the WHO and DoE recommended limits. The study highlighted a clear link between rising vehicle numbers, industrial expansion, and constructional activists increased air pollution in the Tejgaon Industrial area.

Keywords: Particulate Matter (PM); Spatial distribution; Health risk assessment; Hazard quotient (HQ); Lifetime cancer risk (ELCR).