Assessment And Spatial Distribution Of Benzo(A) Pyrene In Soil Environment Of Panvel Taluka

Abstract

This study focuses on soil analysis from different sites (urban, peri-urban, and rural) to quantify the concentration of Benzo (a) Pyrene (B(a)P) in soil during pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. This includes establishing the co-relation with physical parameters and assess its impact in Panvel Taluka (Dist. Raigad), Maharashtra (India).

Samples were collected for two consecutive years (Yr. 2021 & 2022) and from five distinct sites characterized by various human activities, including an agricultural area, an industrial area, residential districts with traffic congestion, and others. Using a spatial statistical tool, to evaluate the spatial characteristics of B(a)P accumulation. Concentration of B(a)P in soil for the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon differed between the two years. Concentration of B(a)P relates inversely to urbanization, indicating a correlation between urban development and the accumulation of pollutant in the soil.

Study observed that the concentration of B(a)P in soils shows a descending gradient in the order of urban > peri-urban > rural areas. Urban and industrial sites have 2-6 times greater B(a)P concentration in soil. In future, this study will help identify the long-term effects, remediation techniques, and policy implications of soil contamination.