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Review

A Comprehensive Review of Surface Ozone Variations in Several Indian Hotspots

by
K. A. Keerthi Lakshmi
1,
T. Nishanth
1,*,
M. K. Satheesh Kumar
2 and
K. T. Valsaraj
3
1
Department of Physics, Sree Krishna College Guruvayur, Affiliated to the University of Calicut, Thrissur 680102, Kerala, India
2
Department of Atomic and Molecular Physics, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
3
Cain Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Atmosphere 2024, 15(7), 852; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15070852
Submission received: 31 May 2024 / Revised: 11 July 2024 / Accepted: 16 July 2024 / Published: 19 July 2024
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Measurement and Variability of Atmospheric Ozone)
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Abstract

:
Ozone at ground level (O3) is an air pollutant that is formed from primary precursor gases like nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It plays a significant role as a precursor to highly reactive hydroxyl (OH) radicals, which ultimately influence the lifespan of various gases in the atmosphere. The elevated surface O3 levels resulting from anthropogenic activities have detrimental effects on both human health and agricultural productivity. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the variations in surface O3 levels across various regions in the Indian subcontinent, focusing on both spatial and temporal changes. The study is based on an in-depth review of literature spanning the last thirty years in India. Based on the findings of the latest study, the spatial distribution of surface O3 indicates a rise of approximately 50–70 ppbv during the summer and pre-monsoon periods in the northern region and Indo-Gangetic Plain. Moreover, elevated levels of surface O3 (40–70 ppbv) are observed during the pre-monsoon/summer season in the western, southern, and peninsular Indian regions. The investigation also underscores the ground-based observations of diurnal and seasonal alterations in surface O3 levels at two separate sites (rural and urban) in Kannur district, located in southern India, over a duration of nine years starting from January 2016. The O3 concentration exhibits an increasing trend of 7.91% (rural site) and 5.41% (urban site), ascribed to the rise in vehicular and industrial operations. This review also presents a succinct summary of O3 fluctuations during solar eclipses and nocturnal firework displays in the subcontinent.

1. Introduction

The rapid growth of industries, urban expansion, and human activities have led to significant deterioration in the quality of the ambient air. The continuous global emission of pollutant gases and particles into the atmosphere causes harm to both human health and the environment. The major air pollutants that are commonly present in the air we breathe daily include particulate matter like PM10 and PM2.5, nitrogen oxides (NOx = NO + NO2), sulphur dioxide (SO2), surface ozone (O3), methane (CH4), non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs), carbon monoxide (CO), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) [1,2]. Air pollution is primarily caused by industrial activities, vehicle emissions, agricultural practices, and natural phenomena such as wildfires and volcanic eruptions [3].
Atmospheric O3 (stratospheric and tropospheric) plays a pivotal role in maintaining ecosystems on the earth’s surface. O3 can be either good or bad depending on where the O3 is and its concentration. Approximately 90% of the O3 in the atmosphere is located in the stratosphere, with the remaining 10% found in the troposphere [4]. The rather limited quantity of tropospheric O3 serves as a significant greenhouse gas, posing a threat to both biological life and plant species due to its increasing trend [5]. Myhre [6] reports that O3 is identified as the third most significant trace gas in the total tropospheric radiative forcing (RF) since the pre-industrial era. The increase in O3 levels has resulted in a worldwide radiative forcing of +0.35 Wm−2, causing a notable impact on climate change.
Despite its minor presence, tropospheric O3 plays a critical role in atmospheric chemistry and the oxidising capacity of the atmosphere [7]. As a result, O3 is recognized as a significant trace gas in the troposphere that can greatly impact atmospheric chemistry [8]. The International Global Atmospheric Chemistry Project (IGAC) has developed the Tropospheric Ozone Assessment Report (TOAR-I and II) to answer questions such as which regions have the most O3 pollution in the world, how much O3 concentration is increasing in developing countries, and what the effects are of O3 on ecosystems [9,10,11,12,13]. Based on the report, tropical locations in India arethe most polluted regions with a greater availability of O3 profiles compare with Western Africa, the tropical South Atlantic, Southeast Asia, Malaysia, and Indonesia [14]. Data from ozonesonde and aircraft observations indicate that the global O3 distribution in the 21st century surpasses that of the 1970s and 1980s [15].
The major sources of surface O3 are the photochemical production and transport from the stratosphere [16]. The abundance of surface O3 can be greatly affected by variations in the concentration of precursor gases (NOx, CH4, CO2, NMHCs, and VOCs), photochemical reactions, and local weather conditions. Moreover, the daily and seasonal variations in O3 are significantly influenced by changes in atmospheric temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and the long-range transport of air mass [17,18,19]. Change in surface O3 and meteorological factors have been extensively monitored in the urban area of the northern hemisphere, especially in North America and Europe [20,21,22]. With slight variation throughout the year, surface O3 concentration has increased since the 19th century from about 10 ppbv at mid-latitudes over Europe and 5 ppbv in tropical regions [23]. Hence, it is imperative to conduct a comprehensive analysis of long-term fluctuations of meteorological parameters in order to investigate the chemical composition of surface O3 at a specific geographical area [24].
Various studies have been accomplished on the photochemical production of surface O3 from its precursor gases over different parts of the globe [25,26,27,28,29,30,31,32,33,34,35,36,37,38,39,40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,48,49,50,51,52]. The results of these investigations indicate that elevated levels of O3 are detected during the summer and pre-monsoon periods. This phenomenon is mainly ascribed to heightened photochemical reactions and the inflow of O3 from the stratosphere. Highaltitude sites (Mt. Fuji and Mauna Loa) show a springtime maximum O3 concentration which is mainly explained on the basis of downward transport of O3-rich air from higher altitudes [53,54]. Conversely, lower concentrations of O3 are observed during the monsoon season, which can be attributed to the presence of wet weather conditions.
The increase in temperatures caused by heat waves has intensified the generation of surface O3, leading to a decline in air quality in numerous regions worldwide [55,56,57]. As research advanced, concerns mounted among scientists regarding the detrimental effects of surface O3 on human well-being, agricultural yields, air quality, and ecosystems [58,59]. Consequently, government authorities and environmental organizations around the globe have implemented strategies to control the release of O3 precursors and reduce surface O3 concentrations. These efforts have included regulations on vehicle emissions, industrial practices, and programs to monitor air quality.
This study illuminates the spatial and temporal fluctuations of surface O3 levels across various regions within the Indian subcontinent. Our aim was to conduct a thorough examination of the vast array of research conducted in India over the last thirty years. Additionally, the research highlights the daily and seasonal variations in surface O3 concentrations recorded at two specific locations in the Kannur district of southern India, spanning a period of nine years from January 2015. The subsequent section will delve into a concise overview of the formation of O3 at ground level, originating from its key precursors and the accompanying chemical reactions.

2. Photochemical Production of Surface O3

The surface O3 formation is generally initiated by the photolysis of NO2. In the presence of solar radiation, NO2undergoes photolysis to produce NO and atomic oxygen and this atomic oxygen reacts with O2 to produce O3.
NO2 + hυ (λ < 424 nm) → NO + O
O + O2 + M → O3 + M
There are no significant sources of O3 in the surface level other than reaction (2). The O3 produced from this reaction rapidly reacts with NO to form NO2.
O3 + NO → NO2 + O2

2.1. Role of CO and VOCs on Surface O3 Formation

The hydroxyl radical is the key reactive species in the chemistry of O3 formation. At a high ratio of VOC to NOx concentration, OH will react mainly with VOCs; at a low ratio, the NOx reaction can predominate. CO reacts with OH, forming H atoms that are quickly scavenged by O2, yielding the hydroperoxyl radical (HO2).
CO + OH → H + CO2
H + O2 + M →HO2 + M
Hydroxyl (OH) also outbreaks hydrocarbons (RH), and other VOCs, leading to alkylperoxy radicals (RO2):
RH + OH → H2O + R
R + O2 + M → RO2 + M
HO2 and RO2 oxidize NO to NO2, reforming OH:
HO2 + NO → OH + NO2
RO2 + NO → RO + NO2
This NO2 generates more O3, within, typically, 1 to 2 min.

2.2. Photochemical Destruction of Surface O3

The photochemical loss of O3 occurs in the lower atmosphere as a part of a series of reactions by which primary pollutants such as hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides react to form secondary pollutants such as peroxyacetyl nitrates
O3 + hυ (λ < 320 nm) → O2 + O(1D)
which generates an excited oxygen atom O(1D), which can react with water to give hydroxyl radical (OH)
O(1D) + H2O→ 2OH
The hydroxyl radicals are central to atmospheric chemistry as they initiate the oxidation of hydrocarbons in the atmosphere and so act as a detergent. In remote regions, O3 is also consumed by reactions with HO2 and OH
HO2 + O3→ OH + 2O2
OH + O3→ HO2 + O2
An additional loss of O3 takes place by dry deposition at the Earth’s surface. Dry deposition, in general, refers to the transport of gaseous and particulate species from the atmosphere onto the earth’s surface in the absence of precipitation. For trace gases, the solubility and chemical reactivity may affect the uptake at the surface [60].

3. Surface O3 Measurements in India

Though India is experiencing rapid economic growth, this progress is accompanied by a significant air pollution problem throughout the country. In the north-eastern region of the country, there is a noticeable increase in tropospheric O3 levels, largely due to industrial and anthropogenic activities. Factors such as active biomass burning, high temperatures, and dry weather in the summer season contribute to the formation of tropospheric O3. Observations and model simulations have revealed a significant rise in O3 concentrations in the industrial cities like Delhi, Kanpur, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, and Bangalore, all of which are experiencing increased anthropogenic activities. Research on surface O3 in India began around thirty years ago and it is currently ongoing at more than 20 different sites across the nation.
Various institutions such as the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), laboratories under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Indian Space Research Organizations (ISRO), the Indian Institute of Technologies (IITs), the Indian Institute of Science, (IISc), and the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) have been actively involved in monitoring the surface O3 levels. These establishments have made use of ground and space-based observations, in addition to suitable models, to verify their findings and evaluate the origins and effects of surface O3. The Ministry of Earth Science (MoES), Government of India, has installed automatic weather stations in each district throughout India to secure the availability of high-resolution spatial and temporal data on meteorological parameters. These stations are integrated into national networks situated in major cities and industrial zones, with the goal of monitoring the influence of meteorological parameters on surface O3 concentrations and ensuring compliance with national air quality standards.

3.1. Concise Overview in the Indian Region

Followed by China and the United States, India is the third largest emitter of greenhouse gases globally [61]. The country is facing a significant environmental challenge due to surface O3 pollution, particularly in urban and industrialized areas with high levels of O3 precursor emissions. Over the last thirty years, the measurements of O3 across the Indian subcontinent have shown a significant rise at the surface level.North India and its surrounding areas are considered the global hotspots for air pollution. Therefore, continuous ground-based observations of trace pollutants are being conducted in north India and the Indo-Gangetic Plain [62,63,64,65,66].
Kumar [67] conducted a study that revealed a daily variation in surface O3 levels at the same location (Nainital). They also observed a distinct seasonal trend, with the highest O3 concentration typically observed in late spring, sometimes surpassing 100 ppbv, and the lowest levels during the monsoon season. Through the examination of air trajectories and model simulations, it was determined that stratospheric transport significantly impacts O3 levels in Nainital in comparison to local pollution. Sarangi [68] conducted a study on O3, CO, and NOy in Nainital, a hill station in the Himalayas. The study revealed that while O3 levels remained stable, there was an increase in CO and NOy levels during the daytime. These fluctuations were associated with atmospheric dynamic processes, including vertical winds and the formation of a strong boundary layer over the Himalayas.
Harithasree [69] carried out on-site measurements of surface O3 attributes in the Doon valley of the Himalaya region from April 2018 to June 2023. The results of the study revealed that O3 levels peaked at noon throughout the year, with the highest concentration occurring in the pre-monsoon period and the lowest during winter and monsoon seasons. This research also highlighted that the photochemical generation of O3 occurs in the transition or VOC-limited regime, emphasising the significance of decreasing emissions of NOx and volatile organic compounds to address surface O3 pollution. Soni [70] found that despite the low levels of primary pollutants in Ahmedabad, there was a significant increase in surface O3 during the lockdown period. Using model simulations, they revealed that this rise was due to changes in meteorological conditions and atmospheric chemistry. Additionally, their research emphasized the complex relationship between emission reductions, intricate chemical reactions, and meteorological variations in influencing O3 concentration.
An investigation was conducted by Kumar [71] to examine the influence of VOCs and OH radicals on the chemical reactions involving surface O3 in the north-western part of India. The results of their research indicated that both NOx and VOCs have a substantial impact on regulating the formation of surface O3 in the Indo-Gangetic Plain. Moreover, it was also discovered that isoprene and acetaldehyde produced as a result of human-made and natural emission sources, play a crucial role in O3 production. This impact remains significant throughout the entire year.
Nelson [72] carried out an innovative study to examine the impact of VOCs on surface O3 formation in Delhi using the Master Chemical Mechanism model. The research focused on investigating the sensitivity of VOCs’ influence on local O3 production rates within a VOC-limited chemical environment in Delhi during periods of smog. Tyagi [73] carried out an investigation into the surface levels of O3 and NOx in three distinct locations within the north-eastern region of India, specifically Aizwal, Guwahati, and Tezpur in the year 2016. The results indicated that Tezpur, situated in a valley in the Himalayas, displayed elevated concentrations of both O3 and NOx in comparison to the other two sites. Notably, all three sites experienced peak levels of O3 and NOx during the pre-monsoon period. This occurrence was linked to the extensive transport of pollutants from the Indo-Gangetic Plain, as well as the industrial zones in Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal.
Hama [74] analysed the spatio-temporal features of particulate matter and trace gases within a network of 12 air quality monitoring stations throughout Delhi-NCR from 2014 to 2017. It was discovered that the levels of air pollutants, excluding surface O3, were notably elevated during the winter season compared to the monsoon and summer seasons. Additionally, they noted that O3 concentration exhibited the highest variation in summer and the lowest in winter. Dumka [75] conducted research on the fluctuations of O3, NOx, CO, CH4, and NMHCs in Guwahati, located in the Brahmaputra river valley of north-eastern India. Their findings revealed that surface O3 exhibited the highest levels during the pre-monsoon and winter seasons due to seasonal variations. Additionally, they identified that the emission of local NOx from the nearby national highway significantly contributed to the rise in O3 levels at the monitoring station.
The study by Kanchana [76] focused on the meteorological factors and fluctuations in surface O3, NOx, CO, and black carbon (BC) in Hyderabad between 2016 and 2017. It was discovered that O3 levels were elevated in winter and decreased during the monsoon season. Moreover, the investigation emphasized the impact of the Atmospheric Boundary Layer (ABL) height on the concentrations of O3 and BC. The investigations conducted by Yadav [77] in Udaipur during 2011–2012 found that the pre-monsoon season had the highest surface O3 levels as a result of convective activities. A significant impact of variations in planetary boundary layer (PBL) height and meteorological changes on the variation in O3 and other pollutants was detected.
Bhardwaj [78] observed the fluctuations in surface O3 and its precursors across Bode in Nepal, as well as two neighbouring sites in Nainital and Pantnagar located in the central Himalayan regions of India. They discovered a significant negative correlation between surface O3 and CO at these locations. Pancholi [79] conducted a study in Jodhpur to investigate the seasonal and diurnal behaviour of surface O3 and NOx. The research findings showed notable variations in both daily and seasonal levels. Through an analysis of OX and NOx levels, the researchers aimed to understand the oxidative dynamics in the region. The results emphasized the significant contributions of air pollutants from both local and regional sources, vehicular exhaust being a major factor.
Mahapatra [80] investigated the different physical and chemical mechanisms that led to an unusual decrease in surface O3 levels in Bhubaneswar during December 2010. They conducted simulations using WRF-Chem and analysed various factors such as meteorological parameters and backward air trajectories on in situ surface O3 variations. Their findings revealed that the reduced O3 concentration was primarily influenced by the transportation of cleaner marine masses to the observation site due to a rare low-pressure event. Saini [81] conducted a study on the variation insurface pollutants at a traffic junction in Agra. Their investigation revealed an increased level of surface O3 during the summer season. Additionally, they observed an elevated concentration of NO2 and CO mixing ratios at the observational site during the post-monsoon and winter seasons.
Yadav [82] reported that the highest mixing ratios of surface O3 occur during the winter/pre-monsoon season in Udaipur. They found that the diurnal variation in O3 over Udaipur is significantly influenced by the temporal changes in local emissions and the variation in ABL height. The study also emphasized the elevated levels of O3 during the afternoon hours, which were attributed to the increased photochemical production and the intrusion of air from the free troposphere. Sharma [83] observed a distinct seasonal fluctuation of trace gases in their study on surface O3 and its precursor gases at an urban site in Delhi. The levels of O3, NOx, CH4, and NMHC were found to be highest during the summer, while CO exhibited higher concentrations during the winter season. Additionally, the analysis of PM and O3 revealed that the concentration of PM in the surrounding air has a significant impact on the production of surface O3 in Delhi.
Tyagi [84] conducted a study on gaseous pollutants in seven distinct regions of Delhi. Their observations revealed that during noontime, there is a significant presence of O3 due to the increased photochemical activities. Additionally, they noted that the concentrations of CO are influenced by the dynamics of the nocturnal boundary layer. An investigation conducted by Mallik [85] focused on analysing the fluctuations in surface O3 levels and its precursors in Ahmedabad. The study revealed that the spontaneous increase in trace gas levels during the post-monsoon period is attributed to shifts in wind patterns. Additionally, the researchers observed a distinct correlation between the concentrations of CO, NOx, and SO2 and the direction of wind, which varied based on the emission sources.
During the period from August 2005 to March 2007, Mandal [86] conducted a study to examine the fluctuations in surface O3 and its precursor gases at Port Blair, a secluded marine station located in the Bay of Bengal. The researchers identified elevated levels of O3, NOx, and CO in the months of March and November. These heightened concentrations were due to the transportation of pollutants over long distances from the eastern region of the Indian subcontinent. Using balloon-borne sensors, Lal [87] found an elevated level of O3 in Ahmedabad from April to June. Their research revealed that O3 levels are mostly varying in the upper troposphere, its fluctuations being influenced by its movement from the stratosphere.
Ojha [88] explored the vertical distribution of O3 above Nainital through the use of ozonesonde. Their findings indicated that the highest O3 levels are observed during the spring season, with the likelihood of stratospheric intrusion in the winter season, resulting in an increased O3 concentration in the middle-upper troposphere of Nainital. Moreover, they highlighted that the surge in O3 levels is predominantly caused by regional pollution in the Indo-Gangetic region along with biomass burning in northern India. During the years 2009–2011, Ojha [89] conducted a study to examine the variations in surface O3 levels in Pantnagar, a semi-urban area located in the Indo-Gangetic Plain(IGP) region. Their findings revealed that the daytime accumulation of O3 concentrations reached a peak of 100 ppbv. These changes in concentrations were found to have an impact on emissions and photochemical processes in the IGP region, consequently affecting the air quality in the Himalayan region. The MATCH-MPIC model simulations indicated that the observational site operates under a NOx limited regime.
Mahapatra [90] investigated the seasonal fluctuations and health hazards linked to the levels of gaseous pollutants in the atmosphere of Bhubaneswar from December 2010 to November 2012. They observed elevated levels of surface O3 and CO during the winter months, due to increased regional emissions and the long-range transport of pollutants from the Indo-Gangetic Plain to the monitoring location. Bhuyan [91] carried out research investigating the impact of precursor gases and meteorological conditions on the fluctuations of O3 levels in Dibrugarh, situated in the Himalayas within the Brahmaputra basin. Their findings revealed high concentrations of O3 levels in March as a result of the emission of pollutants within the local area.
Gaur [92] observed the fluctuations of trace gases in Kanpur over a span of four years. Their findings revealed that trace pollutants, with the exception of surface O3, exhibited peak concentrations during the winter season, while O3 reached its highest levels during the summer months. Swamy [93] conducted a study on the impact of precursors and Black Carbon on surface O3 concentrations at a semi-arid urban site in Hyderabad. The research findings highlighted the significant contribution of local emissions of trace pollutants and meteorological parameters in shaping the daytime variations insurface O3. Interestingly, the study also revealed that O3 concentrations were higher on weekends compared to weekdays, with the impact being particularly pronounced during the winter season.
Reddy [94] conducted an observational study on ground level O3 in Anantapur from 2008 to 2009. Their investigation revealed distinct diurnal and seasonal variations, highlighting the highest rate of O3 production occurs in March, while the lowest rate is observed in July. Singla [95] conducted a study on the levels of surface O3 and its precursor at Dayalbagh, Agra during 2008–2009. The findings of the study indicated that the maximum concentration of O3 during the day was observed between 12:00 and 14:00 h, which can be attributed to photochemical production. The study also revealed that O3 levels exhibited significant seasonal variations, with higher concentrations observed during the summer and winter seasons, and lower concentrations during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.
Debaje and Jeyakumar [96] investigated the fluctuations in surface O3 levels at five different sites along the west coast of the Bay of Bengal. Their research found that the concentration of O3 is higher at the shoreline compared to 20 km inland. They attribute this elevated O3 concentration in the coastal area to the presence of chlorine species, which are produced from the organic reaction of sea salt elements with a lifetime of less than 10 min. Also Debaje and Kakade [97] examined the variations in surface O3 levels at five distinct locations in western Maharashtra from 2001 to 2005. Their results showed a significant seasonal fluctuation in O3, with a notable peak during the summer and winter seasons at both urban and rural sites. The study also indicated that local pollutants played a crucial role in increasing O3 concentrations at the urban and rural sites, while local transport had a significant impact in high altitude mountainous areas.
Ghude [98] investigated the variation insurface O3 concentration in Delhi for seven years and found that the levels of O3 on the ground in the city surpass the “critical levels” considered safe for human health, vegetation, and forests. They also discovered that the concentration of O3 levels significantly increased above 40 ppbv during the winter and pre-monsoon seasons in Delhi. Beig [99] observed a peak in surface O3 levels during 2003-2004 in Pune at noontime. They found that the concentration of O3 was impacted by pollution transported regionally or over long distances to the observation site.
The study conducted by Naja [100], on surface O3 levels at the high altitude location of Mt. Abu from 1993 to 2000, revealed that O3 concentrations are at their lowest during daytime hours. The diurnal pattern of O3 levels significantly changes after the northeast monsoon period. Furthermore, it was observed that the pollutants present in the local area are the main factors leading to the observed elevated concentration of O3 in the late autumn and winter season. Another investigation by Naja [101], at Gadanki, on the variation insurface O3 and precursor gases from 1993 to 1996, revealed a minimal correlation between O3 and NOx. This suggests that the levels of NOx in Gadanki are not regulated by combustion or emissions, but could be attributed to transportation from nearby major towns.
Lal [102] conducted measurements of surface O3 and its precursors in Ahmedabad from 1991 to 1995. The findings indicate that the daytime accumulation of O3 was primarily a result of the photo-oxidation of precursor gases. Variations in ABL height, surface wind patterns, and meteorological parameters also play a key role in regulating the daily fluctuations of trace pollutants in Ahmedabad. In terms of long-term analysis, the study revealed that the seasonal variation in O3 was the highest during the winter–spring season in 1954–1955, whereas in 1991–1995, the highest concentration was observed during winter–autumn season. This disparity in seasonal variations suggests that solar radiation previously controlled the seasonal variation, whereas now it is predominantly influenced by local and regional pollutants.
Sai Krishnaveni [103] conducted a thorough analysis on the spatio-temporal correlation between particulate matter and surface O3 in four urban locations (Delhi, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, and Kolkata) and a rural area (Gadanki) in India. The study utilized data from various sites across India spanning a 4-year timeframe (2019–2022). The findings of the study revealed that meteorological factors significantly influence the relationship between PM2.5 and O3 in rural regions. Moreover, within urban areas, emission sources and atmospheric chemistry are more influential in shaping the correlation between PM2.5 and O3 compared to meteorological conditions.

3.2. Comparison of O3 Variations at Different Sites in India

Table 1 shows the daytime average maximum concentrations of O3over different locations in India. From the table, it is highlighted that the highest levels of O3 are detected during the winter and summer months in the south-western areas of India. The increased O3 levels in winter are primarily attributed to local emissions of precursor gases, the transportation of pollutants from distant areas, and the existence of a shallow Atmospheric Boundary Layer (ABL) height. In all regions, the levels of O3 decrease significantly during the monsoon season as a result of reduced photochemical reactions caused by heavy rainfall, insufficient solar radiation, and the strong marine influence.
During the winter season, Kannur, Trivandrum, Delhi, Port Blair, Bhubaneswar, Ooty, and Hyderabad experience the most elevated levels of O3 concentrations. Conversely, Agra, Kanpur, the Indo-Gangetic Plain, Dayalbagh, and Anantapur showcase extreme levels of O3 concentrations in the summer season. During the pre-monsoon season, elevated levels of O3 are detected in the northern and north-eastern regions of India. The increase in O3 levels observed during night-time hours in the mountainous areas of the Himalayan valley can be attributed to the intrusion of O3 from the free troposphere. The formation and chemistry of surface O3 are predominantly impacted by the marine environment in the south Indian sites as a result of their close proximity to oceans. Conversely, surface O3 production in northern Indian areas is primarily influenced by the land environment, while the mountainous regions in the northeast have a significant impact on this process. Thus, the variations in surface O3 levels across different locations in the Indian subcontinent are primarily influenced by changes in latitude/longitude, meteorological shifts, solar radiation intensity, atmospheric boundary layer height, precursor gas levels, and human activities, as determined by O3 chemistry and transport analysis.

4. Surface O3Measurements in the Kerala Region

Kerala, located in the southern region of India, is a state that extends along the coastline of the Arabian Sea. The state is heavily impacted by the marine surroundings and is currently confronting a notable problem of air pollution caused by the rising emissions from vehicles and development activities. Even though Kerala lacks a large number of industries, it is struggling with this escalating concern of air pollution. There are only a few institutions and organizations in Kerala actively engaged in studying the levels of surface O3 through ground-based observations to assess the atmospheric chemistry and transport of trace gases. The southwest monsoon begins in Kerala during the initial week of June, introducing marine influences throughout spring and summer whereas during winter and autumn, the atmosphere is affected by the landmass. This significant disparity in marine influence leads to an intricate atmospheric chemistry and the movement of air pollutants.
Resmi [104] conducted a studyaimed at characterizing the diurnal and seasonal fluctuations of O3 and its precursors, including NOx, CO, VOCs, and other trace gases, throughout the period of 2019–2020 in the urban setting of Kannur town, situated in the northern region of Kerala state. The study revealed that the seasonal distribution of pollutants exhibited peak concentrations during the winter months, attributed to long-distance transportation and heightened local emissions. Furthermore, a notable reduction in trace air pollutants, with the exception of O3, was observed on weekends in comparison to weekdays, suggesting that the sources of these pollutants were predominantly linked to vehicular and industrial activities. Interestingly, the levels of O3 displayed an increasing trend on weekends as opposed to weekdays, with a more pronounced percentage rise noted during the winter season than in summer. Moreover, based on the statistical analysis, it was suggested that Kannur Town is an area highly susceptible to volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which play a crucial role in regulating the photochemical generation of O3 even in the presence of relatively low levels of NOx.In another study, Resmi [105] examined the prolonged changes in surface O3 and NOx levels at Kannur University campus, situated in a rural area in north Kerala. Their findings indicated that various climatic elements, including solar radiation, atmospheric temperature, and NO2 concentrations have a substantial impact on the photochemical generation and depletion of surface O3. Through the implementation of an artificial neural network analysis, it was determined that atmospheric temperature has a positive correlation with O3 production at the observation site. Furthermore, the study revealed a consistent enhancement in O3 values from 2013 to 2018.
Nair [106] conducted a study on the long-term variations in surface O3 levels. Their findings highlight a significant rise in O3 concentration at Thiruvanthapuram in Kerala. The study revealed a 10 ppbv increase in O3 concentration between 1973 and 2012, with the highest rate of increase occurring from 2005 to 2009 at a rate of 2 ppbv per year. Girach [109] conducted an investigation on the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on surface O3 and NO2 levels at Thumba in Thiruvananthapuram. The findings revealed a notable decrease in the concentration of daytime surface O3 and NO2, with reductions of 36% and 40%, respectively. Furthermore, an interesting observation was made during the onset of land breeze, where a rise in O3 levels was detected. This rise had a magnitude ranging from 5 to 10 ppbv. In order to study this phenomenon, the researchers employed a photochemical box model. Through this model, it was determined that the transportation of O3-enriched air during the onset of land breeze played a significant role in the observed rise at Thumba. Variations in surface O3 at the same location between 2007 and 2009 indicated that the daytime O3 pattern was closely linked to mesoscale movements and the availability of NOx [110].
The daytime rise in O3 persists until the onset of land breeze. The elevated O3 levels observed in winter are attributed to the presence of north-easterly winds that transport precursor gases to the study area. It was also revealed that one molecule of NOx or NO2 is responsible for generating approximately seven to nine molecules of O3 at that specific site. A similar investigation by Nair [111] demonstrated varying diurnal O3 patterns. They determined that the wind profile at Thumba significantly influenced the photochemical generation of O3. During night time, polluted air from the land side moves towards the adjacent oceanic region, moderately increasing the levels of O3 and precursor gases.
The research conducted by Nishanth [112] at Mangattuparamba, Kannur University campus was centred on the surveillance of O3 and NOx levels through ground-based observations. The findings indicated that O3 concentration reached its highest point in the late afternoon throughout the year mainly due to the heightened O3 production resulting from the photolysis of NOx. They also identified the presence of a vapour phase in the ambient air at this site, containing alkanes, alkenes, aldehydes, and organic acids. These compounds contributed to higher levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), thereby aiding in O3 production through the VOC–NOx cycle. Another studyconducted by Nishanth [113] investigated the impact of precursor gases and particulate matter (PM) on the fluctuation of surface O3 levels in Kannur. In the winter season, a notable relationship was discovered between O3 and its precursor CH4. Additionally, a negative association between PM and surface O3 indicated the influence of aerosols on O3 generation in Kannur. The study also emphasized the substantial contribution of marine sources in Mangattuparamba. It was noted that the differences in O3 and NOx concentrations between weekdays and weekends were insignificant in Mangattuparamba, while these differences were more evident in Kannur Town, an urban area greatly affected by vehicular traffic.
Revathy [114] conducted an analysis on the variations in surface O3 concentrations at Ponmudi, a high-altitude location situated in the southern region of the Western Ghats. The research revealed that reduced O3 levels were associated with higher dry deposition loss and the biogenic release of isoprene across the Western Ghats. Also they found that regional pollution from the urban boundary layer and downdraft of rich air during night are mainly influencing the diurnal pattern of O3 over Ponmudi.

5. Long-Term Variation in Surface O3 over Two Locations in Kannur

The importance of surface O3 and its precursors was acknowledged by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) through the establishment of Atmospheric Chemistry, Transport and Modelling (AT-CTM) networks of stations in 2008 as part of the Geosphere, Biosphere Program (GBP) across various regions of the Indian subcontinent. Following this, Kannur was designated as a key site on the west coast of India, leading to the establishment of an atmospheric observatory under ISRO-GBP in 2009. Figure 1 shows the boundary map of India, Kerala, and Kannur district.
This segment focuses on the examination of surface O3 fluctuations at a rural site (Kannur University Campus) and an urban site (Kannur Town) within the Kannur district of Kerala in South India. The measurements were taken at both a rural location (Kannur University Campus) and an urban location (Kannur Town).The annual average diurnal variations insurface O3 at Kannur University Campus (during 2016–2020) and Kannur Town (during 2019–2023) are depicted in Figure 2. Both locations exhibit similar diurnal patterns in O3 levels, but with varying amplitudes. In the rural area, O3 reaches its peak concentration (41.59 ± 8.6 ppbv) in the afternoon (15:00 h) and its lowest (6.82 ± 1.45 ppbv) in the early morning (04:00 h). Conversely, in the urban area, O3 peaks (34.12 ± 4.8 ppbv) in the afternoon (13:30 h) and hits its lowest point (9.82 ± 2.81 ppbv) in the early morning (04:30 h). During the day, ozone concentration is elevated in the rural area (17.96% greater than in the urban area), whereas at night, ozone levels are higher in the urban setting (30% more than in the rural area) as a result of the high pollution levels in the urban location.
These variances stem mainly from differences in the photochemical reaction of precursor gases. Resmi [104] observed a lower level of NO and NO2 at the rural site compared to the urban site. Consequently, the titration of O3 with NO decreases at the rural site, leading to a predominance of photochemical production over the photochemical loss of O3. Therefore, O3 concentration appears to rise during daytime hours at the rural site in comparison to the urban site.
It becomes clear that the diurnal changes of O3 exhibited a similar pattern across all seasons, albeit with varying concentrations at the two sites. The highest concentration of O3 was observed during the winter months, followed by summer and postmonsoon, while the lowest concentration was recorded during the monsoon season. Over the observational sites, O3 concentration starts to upsurge in tune with solar radiation from the morning hours and reachesits extreme level (30–58 ppbv) at noon time hours, and it tends to declinein the evening hours and reachesits lower level (6–15 ppbv) in the night hours. The strongest O3 build up during winter seasons is mainly due to the intense photochemical reactions of precursor gases and the stronger vertical transport over Kannur [115]. In addition to ahigher concentration of precursors, shallow ABL height, intense solar radiation, and very low precipitation during the winter season support a higher concentration of O3 production.
At the rural site (Kannur University Campus), during the winter season, maximum (51.44 ± 5.2 ppbv) and minimum (7.45 ± 2.8 ppbv) levels of O3 are observed at 13:30 h and at 05:00 h, and in summer, maximum (41.50 ± 5.5 ppbv) and minimum (6.42 ± 3.18 ppbv) concentrations are found at 14:00 h and at 06:00 h, respectively. During monsoon season, the maximum (20.62 ± 3.96 ppbv) levels are observed at 14:15 h, and in post-monsoon periods, the highest (29.51 ± 5.05 ppbv) concentrations are recorded at 14:00 h, respectively. At the urban site, during the winter season, maximum (45.24 ± 6.02 ppbv) and minimum (10.5 ± 2.15 ppbv) levels of O3 are observed at 14:30 h and at 05:30 h, and in the summer, maximum (37.0 ± 6.4 ppbv) and minimum (9.42 ± 2.18 ppbv) concentrations are found at 14:30 h and at 06:00 h, respectively. During monsoon season, the maximum (19.24 ± 4.26 ppbv) levels are observed at 14:00 h, and in post-monsoon periods the highest (28.21 ± 5.75 ppbv) concentrations are recorded at 15:00 h, respectively. The rate of change in O3 with respect to time, [d(O3)/dt] for various seasons over the rural and the urban location is shown in Figure 3.
During the winter season, the rate of change reaches its maximum in both locations due to the active photochemical reactions taking place within a shallow boundary layer. This rate is of the order of 9.4 ppbv h−1 and 10.4 ppbv h−1 at 10:00 h and 11:00 h at the rural site and 4.8 ppbv h−1 and 7.5 ppbv h−1 at 10:00 h and 11:00 h at the urban location, respectively.The rate of decrease is high during the evening and is in the order of 10.6 ppbv h−1 and 11.3 ppbv h−1 at 18:00 h and 19:00 h at the rural site and 8.5 ppbv h−1 and 9.2 ppbv h−1 at 18:00 h and 19:00 h at the urban location, respectively. The maximum [d(O3)/dt] in winter is 10.4 ppbv h−1 at 11.00 h at the rural location and 7.5 ppbv h−1 at 11.00 h at the urban location. The [d(O3)/dt] is almost zero at 14:00 h in the winter and summer season for both the rural and urban location. During the midnight hours [d(O3)/dt] is found to be almost steady.
Urban areas experience slow rates of O3 formation and a reduction in the morning and evening, while rural regions undergo rapid rates of O3 generation and reduction during those periods. This difference can be primarily attributed to the lower levels of ambient air pollution found in rural locations. Additionally, regardless of whether it is a rural or urban setting, the rates of O3 production and destruction are notably higher in the winter season compared to summer. This is due to the influence of land mass during winter and marine impact during summer. The presence of a shallow boundary layer in winter significantly impacts O3 chemistry and its dispersion [89,116].The severity of air pollution in a region is usually determined by assessing the O3 production rate in the morning and its lapse rate in the late evening. Moreover, the comprehensive investigation reveals that the rapid decline in O3 concentrations during winter evenings is markedly impacted by the ambient air pollution in comparison to the summer season. Consequently, a reduction in this decline indicates a shift from a pure environment to a polluted one, which can be evaluated by analysing the rate of O3 modification. Similarly, the reduction in O3 production at 14:00 h can be attributed to the influence of the sea breeze that impacts the rural area significantly during the winter season. This highlights the significant susceptibility of rural regions in the production of O3 to sudden changes in atmospheric environment. The statistical analysis of the observed concentration of O3 at the rural and urban site is listed in Table 2.
During the period of January to December 2015, the rural site exhibited an average O3 concentration of 33.75 ± 10.6 ppbv, which increased to 36.42 ± 9.6 ppbv in the same period in 2020. This indicates a 7.91% rise in O3 levels over the six-year span from 2015 to 2020 at the rural site. In contrast, the urban site showed an average O3 concentration of 32.14 ± 11.48 ppbv during January to December 2019, which increased to 33.88 ± 11.54 ppbv in the same period in 2020, reflecting a 5.41% increase. The investigation carried out by Resmi [104] unveiled the sensitivity O3 production in the urban region of Kannur to volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

6. Surface O3 Variations during Special Episodes in India

Surface O3 formation and destruction is dependent on emissions, concentrations, and ratios of precursors and intensity of solar radiation. Fireworks and solar eclipses provide unique opportunities to conduct a detailed study of the short-term changes in the atmospheric chemistry of surface O3. The following section describes the variation insurface O3 during fireworks and solar eclipse episodes.

6.1. Surface O3 Variations during Fireworks

Indian festivals and cultural events are deeply embedded in the social structure, showcasing the abundant diversity and heritage of the nation. However, the use of fireworks during these events poses significant challenges, especially in terms of air quality and public health. The captivating display of vibrant colours against the dark sky may attract a diverse audience, but it is essential to consider the potential consequences on atmospheric air and public well-being. Several research studies have highlighted the adverse effects of fireworks on air quality, particularly in densely populated regions where festivals are prevalent [117,118,119,120]. Burning fireworks leads to the release of various pollutants, such as particulate matter, sulphur compounds, and heavy metals, which can remain in the atmosphere and contribute to air pollution. The presence of surface O3 pollution during fireworks is a major issue, especially in urban areas where celebrations are frequent. Although fireworks do not directly emit substantial amounts of O3, they can contribute to its formation through chemical reactions involving NO2 and VOCs in the atmosphere. A study by Attri [121] proposed a pathway for the creation of ground-level O3 due to the combustion of fireworks.
Limited research has been conducted to investigate the impact of fireworks on surface O3 levels in India. These studies typically involve monitoring O3 concentrations before, during, and after fireworks events, as well as analysing the atmospheric chemical composition to understand the factors contributing to O3 formation. Diwali, a festival of lights, widely celebrated in India, involves the widespread use of fireworks as a crucial part of the celebrations. Ganguly [122] conducted a study examining the changes in O3 and various air pollutants in nine major cities in India during the Diwali festival in 2016. The study revealed a significant increase in the concentration of O3 and other pollutants during the period when fireworks were set off.
Mandal [123] explored the differences in air pollution levels during Diwali celebrations amidst the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 compared to the previous year. They observed that the level of major air pollutants including O3 was substantially higher in 2020 than 2019 due to the usage of more firecrackers in 2020 than the preceding year. Saxena [124] analysed the atmospheric pollutants such as O3, NOx, and PM during the Diwali fireworks at a residential site in Delhi in 2016 and 2017, and found a sharp increase in the quantity of pollutants on the Diwali day due to the combustion of fireworks. Garg [125] conducted a study on the impact of firecracker detonation on air quality in Delhi over a six-year period from 2010 to 2015. The researchers found significant increases in O3, PM, and NO2 concentrations compared to the month before the festivities. Ambade [126] also investigated O3 and other trace pollutants during the Diwali festival in Jamshedpur in 2017, revealing levels that exceeded the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS). Additionally, Peshin [127] noted elevated levels of O3, NOx, and PM during Diwali in 2014, mainly due to firecracker burning.
Vishu is a major festival that is predominantly celebrated with night-time fireworks in the Indian state of Kerala on either April 14th or 15th, as per the Gregorian calendar. Resmi [128] has documented the changes in O3 and other trace air pollutants levels during pre–post and Vishu days across two consecutive years (2020 and 2021) in Kannur town. The study found a 51% increase in O3 concentration during the evening fireworks event on Vishu eve, along with a 61% rise during the early morning fireworks display on Vishu day. Furthermore, it was noted that the enforcement of COVID-19 lockdown measures in 2020 led to a decline in air pollution levels compared to previous years. Another examination conducted by the same researcher, Resmi [129], provides valuable insights into the air quality dynamics during the Vishu festival in Mangattuparamba, a rural area in Kannur. The research findings from the Vishu celebrations held between 2015 and 2018 clearly demonstrate a significant increase in O3, PM, and NO2 concentrations. This rise is directly linked to the emissions of pollutants released from fireworks, resulting in temporary spikes in air pollution. Both the model and observations confirm that the intensified photochemical production of NO2 is the main factor contributing to the observed increase in O3 levels during the fireworks displays in Mangattuparamba.
In 2010 and 2011, a study was carried out by Nishanth [130] on the night-time generation of O3 during the Vishu festival fireworks. The results showed that the elevated levels of O3 were directly linked to NO2 photodissociation caused by the firecracker explosions. This resulted in a two-fold increase in O3 concentration compared to normal days in both years. Using a UV–visible spectrophotometer, the researchers examined the emission spectra of the firecrackers and put forward a complex mechanism for O3 production during the night-time fireworks show. Specifically, they proposed that the higher concentration of alkanes released into the gas phase during the fireworks primarily reacted with the OH radical to form alkyl radicals. These alkyl radicals then quickly combined with O2 to generate alkyl peroxy (RO2) radicals, following a reaction pathway suggested by Wilson [131].
OH + RH →H2O + R
R + O2→RO2
RO2 can further react with NO3 radicals to form NO2,
RO2 +NO3→RO + NO2 + O2
It was suggested that the peroxy radicals oxidise NO into NO2, thus renewing OH. As a result, the NO2 produced is photolyzed in the flash of firecrackers, producing O3.

6.2. Surface O3 Variations during Different Solar Eclipse

Solar eclipses offer a distinct opportunity for researchers to examine how different atmospheric parameters influence atmospheric dynamics across various regions of the world during the obscuration of sun for a short period of time. These celestial events lead to temporary alterations in solar insolation, temperature, and atmospheric circulation, ultimately impacting atmospheric chemistry, dynamics, and meteorological conditions [132,133,134,135,136]. Various studies were conducted focusing on the photochemistry of surface and stratospheric O3during solar eclipse episodes [137,138,139,140,141]. Manchanda [142] detected a notable decrease in O3 levels in both the stratosphere and troposphere immediately following the peak of the eclipse in Thiruvananthapuram on 15 January 2010. This drop can be attributed to the decrease in temperature and solar actinic flux caused by the eclipse. Anoop [143] observed a gradual decline in surface O3 concentrations during the eclipse event on 26December 2019 in Kozhikode, a northern coastal city in Kerala. The decrease in O3 levels was associated with the decrease in solar irradiance due to the eclipse and the decrease in NO2 mixing ratios as a result of reduced convection. Jain [144] reported a 48% reduction in surface O3 levels and an 8% increase in NO2 levels, coinciding with a decrease in solar irradiance during the solar eclipse that occurred on 26th December 2019 in South India.
Resmi [145] explored the changes in surface and total column O3 levels, as well as other trace air pollutants, during an annular solar eclipse that took place on 26 December 2019 in Kannur town, Kerala. The study revealed a significant decrease in surface O3 concentration by 61.5% and total column O3 by 11.8%, along with a 93% reduction in solar radiation at the peak of the solar eclipse. Model simulations were employed to elucidate the variations in photodissociation coefficient j(NO2) values, showing a strong agreement with the decrease in j(NO2) as simulated by the model.The investigation carried out by Nishanth [146] determined that the solar eclipse on 15 January 2010 had a significant impact on surface O3 levels and meteorological parameters in Kannur. Solar radiation and O3 levels decreased by 89% and 57.5%, respectively, while NOx levels increased by 62.5% during the eclipse’s peak. The decline in O3 and NOx levels was attributed to the decrease in NO2 photolysis rates, as indicated by the model simulation. The model’s simulated O3 reduction of 59% closely aligned with the observed reduction of 57.5% during the eclipse.
Sharma [147] observed a decrease in surface O3 and NO2 levels after the start of a solar eclipse in Thiruvananthapuram on 15 January 2010. Their research indicated a notable drop in surface O3 only 22 min into the eclipse’s full phase. Additionally, they recorded a decline in ambient temperature and wind speed, as well as an uptick in relative humidity during the solar eclipse event. Akhil [148] carried out a study focusing on the fluctuations in O3 vertical distribution during the solar eclipse that occurred on 26 December 2019 in Gadanki. The research involved the use of ozonesonde and multiple instruments. The results demonstrated a rise in upper tropospheric O3 levels immediately after the solar eclipse, while a decline in total O3 was noted during the peak of solar obscuration. By examining meteorological parameters, MST radar observations, and back trajectory simulations, it was concluded that the observed O3 elevation was influenced by a stratospheric exchange pre-eclipse and long-distance transportation facilitated by the sub-tropical jet stream passing over Gadanki.

7. Conclusions

Surface O3 is an air pollutant with oxidizing capacity, originating close to the Earth’s surface through the interaction of its precursors under sunlight. It is a secondary air pollutant derived from primary pollutants such as NOx and VOCs. The smog prevalent during the winter season in India and China is primarily caused by surface O3. This analysis presents a historical summary of surface O3 measurements carried out at network centres in India. Long-term O3 monitoring stations throughout the country have shown that the production of surface O3 is greatly influenced by factors such as geography, latitude, marine impact, and local air pollution. Additionally, there is a noticeable variation in the timing of peak O3 concentrations. The highest levels of surface O3 are mainly observed during the summer/pre-monsoon months in dry regions due to increased precursor gases. Conversely, during the winter months, the peak O3 levels have been recorded in areas near mountainous regions in North India. On the other hand, O3 levels peak during the winter months in southern regions of India due to clear skies and extensive long-range air mass transport. The elevated levels of precursors leading to surface O3 in autumn and winter are a result of continent-wide transport and lower boundary layer heights. This analysis also seeks to highlight the current studies focusing on surface O3 levels conducted across a network of environmental observatories in India, particularly in rural areas.
The review emphasized the difference in O3 production rates between two distinct urban and rural locations in Kannur. The maximum production rate at the rural location is 10.4 ppbv h−1 at 11.00 h, while the urban location has a production rate of 7.5 ppbv h−1 at the same time. The Kannur university campus is considered a rural location, while Kannur town is an urban site located approximately 15kms away from the rural location. Additionally, both sites show an increasing trend in surface O3, with a 7.91% increase in the rural location over five years from 2016 to 2020, and a 5.41% increase in the urban location over five years from 2019 to 2023. This observation highlights a significant rise in O3 production rate in the rural area of Kannur compared to its urban counterpart.
An abrupt change in the surface O3 concentration is detected during unique events such as solar eclipses and fireworks. The data collected during these occurrences can lead to changes in the typical chemistry related to the generation and removal of trace gases. These specific events, each with their own characteristics, play a role in shaping the overall atmospheric chemistry of the location. The gradual decrease and subsequent rise in surface O3 levels during the solar eclipse, along with its effects on meteorological factors, and the increase in surface O3 levels at night during fireworks shows, pose a unique challenge for scientific investigation.
The assessment has been compiled by selecting the most relevant literature detailing the changes in surface O3 caused by precursors and meteorological factors. Nevertheless, it is not exhaustive as we could not include additional research due to space limitations.

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, K.A.K.L., T.N. and M.K.S.K.; Methodology, M.K.S.K. and T.N.; software, T.N. and K.A.K.L.; validation, M.K.S.K. and K.T.V.; formal analysis, K.A.K.L., T.N., M.K.S.K. and K.T.V.; investigation, K.A.K.L., T.N. and M.K.S.K.; resources, T.N., M.K.S.K. and K.T.V.; data curation, T.N. and M.K.S.K.; writing—original draft preparation, K.A.K.L. and T.N.; writing—review and editing, T.N., M.K.S.K. and K.T.V.; supervision, T.N. and M.K.S.K.; project administration, T.N. and M.K.S.K.; funding acquisition, K.T.V. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This research received no external funding.

Institutional Review Board Statement

Ethical review and approval were not required for this study as it did not involve the use of humans or animals in the research process.

Informed Consent Statement

Informed consent was deemed unnecessary for this study since there were no human or animal subjects involved in the review process.

Data Availability Statement

This manuscript serves as a review, utilizing literature exclusively for the analysis without incorporating any data.

Acknowledgments

The authors wish to extend their sincere appreciation to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Bangalore, for their invaluable support in the Atmospheric Chemistry, Transport, and Modeling (AT-CTM) project under the Geosphere Biosphere Programme. Furthermore, the authors are grateful to the Kerala State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) for their assistance in researching air pollutants over Kerala region. Valsaraj acknowledges the generous support from the Charles and Hilda Roddey Distinguished Professorship at LSU. Authors express their thanks to Chinthu Viswanath, Sree Krishna College Guruvayur for his critical comments. Furthermore, the authors acknowledge their gratitudeto four anonymous reviewers for their insightful feedbacks and critical comments to improve the manuscript in the present form.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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Atmosphere 15 00852 g001
Figure 1. Map of India, Kerala, and Kannur district.
Figure 1. Map of India, Kerala, and Kannur district.
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Figure 2. Annual average diurnal variation insurface O3 over rural and urban location in Kannur.
Figure 2. Annual average diurnal variation insurface O3 over rural and urban location in Kannur.
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Figure 3. Seasonal variations in the rate of change in O3 at (a) rural location (b) urban location.
Figure 3. Seasonal variations in the rate of change in O3 at (a) rural location (b) urban location.
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Table 1. Observed daytime average/maximum surface O3 concentrations over different locations in India.
Table 1. Observed daytime average/maximum surface O3 concentrations over different locations in India.
LocationsCategoryDaytime Average/Maximum (ppbv) (Season)Reference
Doon ValleyHimalaya region63.8 ± 15.3 (Pre monsoon)[69]
AhmedabadSemi-arid urban40–60 (Summer)[70]
AizwalHimalayan Valley27.1 (Pre-Monsoon)[73]
TezpurHimalayan Valley31.0 (Pre-Monsoon)[73]
GuwahatiRiver valley18.31 ± 5.8 Pre monsoon[75]
HyderabadSub-urban region35.54 ± 7.16 (Winter)[76]
JodhpurSemi-arid,47 ± 11.5 (Pre monsoon)[79]
AgraUrban32.5 ± 19.3 (Summer)[81]
UdaipurSemi-arid46 ± 12.5 (Pre monsoon)[82]
NCR DelhiUrban45.3 ± 9.5 (Winter)[84]
Port BlairMarine site30 ± 5 (Winter)[86]
PantnagarSemi-Urban48.7 ± 13.8 (Spring)[89]
BhubaneswarUrban61.7 ± 12.7 (Winter)[90]
DibrugarhSub Himalayan42.9 ± 10.3 (Pre monsoon)[91]
KanpurUrban27.9 ± 17.8 (Summer)[92]
DayalbagSuburban56 ± 10.8 (Summer)[95]
Kannur TownUrban city48.25 ± 7.2 (Winter)[104]
Kannur University Rural35.47 ± 10.5 (Winter)[105]
TrivandrumCoastal40 ± 8.5 (Winter)[106]
AnantapurSemi-arid, Rural64.9 ± 5.3 (Summer)[107]
OottyHigh altitude53.5 ± 8.2 (Winter)[108]
Table 2. Statistical analysis of the observed O3 levels at the rural and urban site.
Table 2. Statistical analysis of the observed O3 levels at the rural and urban site.
Period of Observation at Rural SiteStatisticsO3 Concentration (ppbv)Period of Observation at Urban SiteStatisticsO3 Concentration (ppbv)
1 January 2016–
31 December 2016		Average34.381 January 2019–
31 December 2019		Average34.38
Standard deviation11.1Standard deviation11.48
Daytime maximum56.12Daytime maximum46.78
Daytime minimum12.4Daytime minimum13.58
Number of datapoints41,760Number of datapoints36,540
1 January 2017–
31 December 2017		Average35.121 January 2020–
31 December 2020		Average32.33
Standard deviation12.2Standard deviation10.56
Daytime maximum57.6Daytime maximum48.52
Daytime minimum12.02Daytime minimum14.42
Number of datapoints40,880Number of datapoints37,560
1 January 2018–
31 December 2018		Average35.471 January 2021–
31 December 2021		Average32.78
Standard deviation10.5Standard deviation11.87
Daytime maximum58.5Daytime maximum47.98
Daytime minimum12.45Daytime minimum13.96
Number of datapoints39,320Number of datapoints38,440
1 January 2019–
31 December 2019		Average35.971 January 2022–
31 December 2022		Average33.32
Standard deviation8.52Standard deviation11.41
Daytime maximum59.21Daytime maximum48.98
Daytime minimum12.68Daytime minimum13.38
Number of datapoints36,558Number of data points37,960
1 January 2020–
31 December 2020		Average36.421 January 2023–
31 December 2023		Average33.88
Standard deviation9.6Standard deviation11.54
Daytime maximum59.85Daytime maximum50.21
Daytime minimum12.18Daytime minimum14.28
Number of datapoints40,240Number of datapoints38,540
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Keerthi Lakshmi, K.A.; Nishanth, T.; Satheesh Kumar, M.K.; Valsaraj, K.T. A Comprehensive Review of Surface Ozone Variations in Several Indian Hotspots. Atmosphere 2024, 15, 852. https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15070852

AMA Style

Keerthi Lakshmi KA, Nishanth T, Satheesh Kumar MK, Valsaraj KT. A Comprehensive Review of Surface Ozone Variations in Several Indian Hotspots. Atmosphere. 2024; 15(7):852. https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15070852

Chicago/Turabian Style

Keerthi Lakshmi, K. A., T. Nishanth, M. K. Satheesh Kumar, and K. T. Valsaraj. 2024. "A Comprehensive Review of Surface Ozone Variations in Several Indian Hotspots" Atmosphere 15, no. 7: 852. https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15070852

APA Style

Keerthi Lakshmi, K. A., Nishanth, T., Satheesh Kumar, M. K., & Valsaraj, K. T. (2024). A Comprehensive Review of Surface Ozone Variations in Several Indian Hotspots. Atmosphere, 15(7), 852. https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15070852

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