O₃ in India
It is not emitted directly. It forms when NO₂ and volatile organic compounds react in sunlight, and it is worst on summer afternoons. It is not the protective ozone layer.
WHO guideline
60 µg/m³ peak season
India NAAQS
100 µg/m³ (8 hour mean)
Unit
µg/m³
Live O₃ levels in Indian cities right now
Loading live data…
Where O₃ comes from
- Vehicle exhaust (NO₂ + VOCs)
- Industrial solvents and paints
- Petrol vapours from refuelling
- Strong sunlight + high temperatures (precursor reaction)
How O₃ harms human health
- Coughing and sore throat
- Reduced lung function during outdoor activity
- Aggravated asthma
- Damages lung tissue with long-term exposure
What you can do
Reduce personal exposure with N95 masks during peak hours, run a HEPA purifier indoors, and switch to clean transport where possible. Push for systemic change: file an RTI, attend NCAP city consultations, demand transparent station data from your municipality.
Set O₃ alerts for your city