Explain what you see in the following graphic. (a) How does human activity affect the substance shown in the graphic? (b) How does this substance affect human health? (Graphic provided in the original PDF)
In short
The graphic concerns air pollution: human activities such as industrial and vehicle emissions, crop residue burning, construction dust and waste burning release PM2.5, PM10, NOx and SO2 into the air. This pollution causes asthma, COPD, heart disease and developmental harm, hitting children, the elderly and non-attainment cities like Visakhapatnam hardest.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 277 words
Regulatory Mechanisms
The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, CPCB’s National Air Quality Monitoring Programme and the National Clean Air Programme, covering non-attainment cities in Andhra Pradesh such as Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada, identify hotspots and enforce standards to control emissions effectively.
State-Level Implementation
The Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board manages pollution control in industrial hubs like Visakhapatnam, a key emission source, and ensures compliance through monitoring and enforcement.
Industrial and Transport Emissions
Fossil fuel combustion releases PM2.5, NOx, and SO2, deteriorating air quality in urban and industrial zones of Andhra Pradesh, contributing to smog and acid rain.
Respiratory and Cardiovascular Diseases
Chronic exposure leads to asthma, bronchitis, and heart diseases, prevalent in Andhra Pradesh urban populations, increasing healthcare burdens.
Vulnerable Groups
Children, elderly, and pregnant women face higher risks of lung function reduction and mortality, with emerging evidence linking pollution to neurological impairments and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Monitoring and Transparency
Expand real-time air quality networks in Andhra Pradesh and ensure public data access to empower communities and policymakers.
Clean Energy and Norms
Promote renewables, electric vehicles, and enforce strict emission standards with audits and penalties to reduce pollution sources effectively.
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Question from the official APPSC Group-I Mains 2020 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.