TTZ seeks explanation after SO₂, NO₂ levels breach standards

Agra: A report submitted by the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) to the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ) authority has flagged a rise in sulphur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) levels at several locations, prompting the authority to seek an explanation from the board.According to the report submitted to TTZ chairman and divisional commissioner Nagendra Pratap, SO₂ concentrations in Mathura and Firozabad, and NO₂ levels in Bharatpur, exceeded prescribed annual standards, raising concerns about pollution in the region surrounding the Taj Mahal.Monitoring data collected between Feb and May 2025 showed that the annual permissible limit for sulphur dioxide is 20 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³). In Mathura, SO₂ levels rose from 19.7 µg/m³ in February to 25.06 µg/m³, crossing the prescribed threshold.The highest SO₂ concentration was recorded in Firozabad, where levels touched 32.8 µg/m³ in March 2025, significantly above the permissible limit. In Bharatpur, NO₂ concentrations reached 32.2 µg/m³ in February, breaching the prescribed annual standard of 30 µg/m³.The report identified emissions from Mathura Refinery, Firozabad's glass industry, and diesel generator (DG) sets used by commercial establishments as major contributors to the increase in pollution levels. Officials also cited the growing movement of heavy diesel vehicles and commercial traffic on highways as a key reason behind the rise in NO₂ concentrations.Apart from industrial and vehicular emissions, the assessment pointed to increasing tourism activity and commercial transportation as additional factors contributing to the pollution burden across the TTZ region.Taking serious note of the findings, Agra divisional commissioner and TTZ chairperson Nagendra Pratap directed the concerned departments to fix accountability and strengthen monitoring mechanisms to curb further deterioration in air quality.The findings have renewed concerns over pollution control measures in the protected zone around the Taj Mahal. In a landmark judgment in 1996, the Supreme Court designated a 10,400 sq km area around the monument as the Taj Trapezium Zone to shield the Unesco World Heritage Site from industrial and vehicular pollution. The order prohibited the use of coal and coke in industries within the zone, mandated a transition to cleaner fuels such as natural gas, and required the relocation or closure of non-compliant industrial units.In addition to TTZ regulations, Agra also implements the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) under the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). However, these measures come into force only when the Air Quality Index (AQI) crosses the 200-mark threshold.