Study of Environmental Emissions from Road Transportation; A case of
Bhaktapur Municipality, Nepal
Abstract
The unprecedented growth of emissions has deteriorated air quality
dramatically leading to a pulmonary complication on human health
especially during winter season increasing the prevalence of Chronic
Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases (COPD) more in female compared to male.
Selecting different peak and non-peak hour this study estimated
vehicular emission load with the help of emission factors, derived
equations, field visits, and literature review. The average annual
vehicular energy demand of Bhaktapur municipality was estimated 33,044
GJ. The emission load of Bhaktapur municipality was estimated 3,310
tons/year including (CO2, CO, NOx, HC and PM10) of which CO2 accounts
for 94.36% of total emissions followed by CO(4.39%), HC(0.72%), NOx
(0.35%), and PM10 (0.18%) respectively. Statistical analysis showed
significant positive correlation (r = 0.92, p = 0.002) between CO2 and
PM10, (r = 0.87, p = 0.009) between CO2 and NOx, (r = 0.90, p = 0.004)
between CO and HC, (r = 0.74, p = 0.05) between NOx and PM10
respectively. Assuming an inauguration of electric Car, Motorbike and
Buses within the Municipality at the rate of 10%, 20%, and 30% showed
a significant reduction in emissions by 157 tons/year, 314 tons/year and
471 tons/year respectively. Carbon dioxide was found more potent to
deteriorating air quality in the future compared to other vehicular
pollutants. Replacement of fossil fuel based technology with clean
energy technology is needed in the Bhaktapur municipality to sustain
human health and welfare. Having lower emissions in Bhaktapur
Municipality compared to its nearest city Kathmandu despite differences
in population density and area size, effective preparedness, policy, and
response in the present scenario can prevent worse possible future
scenario.