GCC to install sensors, screens at 75 places to provide real-time environmental data

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) Council on Friday passed a resolution to install environmental sensors at 75 locations to provide real-time data of 18 different parameters of pollution to the public through the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC).

Display boards will be installed alongside the environmental sensors and residents will get to see the data about air quality, particulate matter, sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, noise pollution, temperature, and humidity in real-time.

If the readings exceed the safety threshold, the civic body will take remedial measures.

“We have identified 75 locations including industrial areas, commercial hubs and areas with high population density. The data on all the 18 parameters will be saved for research purposes. The public will be able to see important aspects of environment pollution in real-time. This is an innovative project,” said an official.

Four companies have participated in the tender to install the environment sensors and displays to disseminate information about pollution to the residents in the city.

The environmental sensors will also measure wind speed and direction, rainfall, and other environmental factors to determine the impact on public health in polluted areas. Residents will be able to assess heat wave conditions in real-time through the ICCC linked with the environmental sensors.

Vehicular emissions in important areas with a lot of traffic movement will also be monitored in real-time.

Councillors have demanded real-time monitoring of pollution near dumpyards in Perungudi and Kodungaiyur. They have also stressed the need for sharing the data with residents to take remedial measures in each neighbourhood in the city’s 15 zones.