Characterization of five-year observation data of fine particulate matter in the metropolitan area of Lahore

This study aims to assess the long-term trend of fine particles (PM(2.5); ≤2.5 μm) at two urban sites of Lahore during 2007–2011. These sites represent two distinct areas: commercial (Townhall) and residential cum industrial (Township). The highest daily mean concentrations of PM(2.5) were noted as 389 and 354 μg m(−3) at the Townhall and Township sites, respectively. As expected, the annual seasonal mean of PM(2.5) was about 53 and 101% higher during winter compared with the summer and monsoon/post-monsoon seasons, respectively. On contrary to many observations seen in developing cities, the annual mean PM(2.5) during the weekends was higher than weekdays at both monitoring sites. For example, these were 100 (142) and 142 μg m(−3) (148) during the weekdays (weekends) at the Townhall and Township sites, respectively. The regression analysis showed a significant positive correlation of PM(2.5) with SO(2), NO(2) and CO as opposed to a negative correlation with O(3). The bivariate polar plots suggested a much higher influence of localized sources (e.g., road vehicles) at the Townhall site as opposed to industrial sources affecting the concentrations at the Township site. The imageries from the MODIS Aqua/Terra indicated long-range transport of PM(2.5) from India to Pakistan during February to October whereas from Pakistan to India during November to January. This study provides important results in the form of multiscale relationship of PM(2.5) with its sources and precursors, which are important to assess the effectiveness of pollution control mitigation strategies in Lahore and similar cities elsewhere. [Figure: see text]