Variations in CO, O3 and black carbon aerosol mass concentrations associated with planetary boundary layer (PBL) over tropical urban environment in India

Carbon monoxide (CO), Ozone (O-3) and Black Carbon (BC) aerosol mass concentrations in relation to planetary boundary layer (PBL) height measurements were analyzed from January-December, 2008 over tropical urban environment of Hyderabad, India. DMSP-OLS night-time satellite data were analyzed for fire occurrence over the region and its correlation with pollution concentrations over the urban region. Results of the study suggested considerable increase in CO and BC concentrations during early morning hours. Higher concentration of BC, CO and ozone was observed during pre-monsoon, post-monsoon and winter and lowest concentrations exhibited during monsoon season. NCEP/NCAR reanalysis winds suggested long range transport of aerosols and trace gases from forest fires are enhancing the pollutant concentrations over the study area.