Impacts of Air Pollution on Patna's Inhabitants: Assessing its Health Consequences and Air Quality Prediction

Air pollution is a serious issue in most parts of Bihar, especially in its capital city, Patna. The air quality in Patna has significantly worsened due to factors like rapid urbanization, increased traffic, and various natural and human-related causes. This decline in air quality has led to several negative health effects. In light of this, the aim of this study was to examine how air pollution affects the short-term and long-term health of Patna's residents, taking into account age and exposure time as important factors. To conduct the study, we collected air quality data from the previous eight (2013-2020), which we obtained from the Bihar State Pollution Control Board's website. By using extrapolation techniques, we were able to make predictions about the city's future air quality. We gathered data from two busy intersections in Patna, specifically Danapur and Digha. Health effects from air pollution was collected from the residents by a formatted questionnaire. To analyse the relationship between age, exposure time, and the health effects reported by the participants, we used a statistical test called the chi-square test of independence. The findings of the study revealed a clear link between age, exposure time, and the health status of the participants. We concluded that older individuals and those with longer exposure times faced a higher risk associated with the increasing air pollution levels. This study provides a foundation for raising awareness among both authorities and the general public of the adverse health impacts associated with declining air quality, emphasizing the urgency in taking appropriate measures to counter this challenge.