Impact Factor (2025): 6.9
DOI Prefix: 10.47001/IRJIET
This study
investigates the variation in particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10)
concentrations in Gazipur, Bangladesh during three distinct phases: before,
during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic by utilizing secondary data from the
Continuous Air Monitoring Stations situated in Gazipur. Gazipur is one of the
major urban cities and a hub for the garments industry in Bangladesh. Since the
establishment of Gazipur City Corporation in 2013, a number of large-scale
construction and development projects have been initiated there which
eventually deteriorated the air quality. The findings indicated consistently
high pollution levels before the COVID-19 pandemic, especially during winter
months. Seasonal factors, like low temperatures and stagnant air, lead to increased
PM levels, although monsoon rains temporarily improved air quality. During the
COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, PM2.5 and PM10 levels
decreased by 6.5% and 53.7% respectively, based on annual average compared to
2019 because of reduced industrial and transportation activities. Nevertheless,
levels immediately returned to pre-pandemic figures following the lifting of
major restrictions. Even during the lockdown, PM concentrations were above
Bangladesh's National Ambient Air Quality Standards and World Health Organization’s
Air Quality Guidelines as evidenced by the annual average value of 235 µg/m³
for PM10 in 2021. The peak PM2.5 and PM10
levels post COVID-19 were recorded as 307.1 and 339 µg/m³ respectively. These
findings emphasize the necessity of adopting long-term measures to improve air
quality. Measures must encompass more stringent emissions regulations,
additional CAMS establishment, sustainable urban development, and improved
public awareness to safeguard public health and ensure clean air in Gazipur.
Country : Bangladesh
IRJIET, Volume 9, Issue 8, August 2025 pp. 107-112