Accuracy vs Convenience: Why Manual Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Remains Essential for Regulatory Compliance


Authors : Kunal Gajare; Anil Shelke; Tanaji Gajare; Harshal T. Gajare

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 5 - May


Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/5xccrsnz

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25may2143

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.


Abstract : This research paper examines the comparative aspects of manual and online ambient air quality monitoring systems, highlighting their roles in regulatory compliance within India. Despite technological advancements favouring online monitoring for its convenience and immediacy, manual monitoring methods remain indispensable due to their superior accuracy, reliability, and traceability. By analysing the guidelines mandated by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), this paper emphasizes the continued necessity of manual sampling for critical regulatory submissions such as Form V and Environmental Clearances (EC). The paper concludes with strategic recommendations advocating an integrated monitoring approach, combining the strengths of both manual and online methodologies for optimal environmental management and regulatory compliance.

Keywords : Manual Air Quality Monitoring, Online Monitoring Systems, CPCB, MPCB, Regulatory Compliance, Environmental Statement (Form V), Environmental Clearances (EC), Traceability, Air Pollution, Integrated Monitoring Approach.

References :

  1. Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), "Guidelines for Ambient Air Quality Monitoring," CPCB, Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India, 2011.
  2. Kumar, P., Morawska, L., Martani, C., et al. (2018). The rise of low-cost sensing for managing air pollution in cities. Environment International, 120, 199-210. DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.08.016
  3. Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India.
  4. Environmental Impact Assessment Notification, 2006, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India.
  5. World Health Organization (WHO), "Air Pollution and Health," Fact Sheet, WHO, 2021. Available online: www.who.int
  6. Kumar, P., Morawska, L., Martani, C., et al. (2018). The rise of low-cost sensing for managing air pollution in cities. Environment International, 120, 199-210. DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.08.016
  7. Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), "Guidelines for Ambient Air Quality Monitoring," CPCB, Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India, 2011.
  8. Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India.
  9. Environmental Impact Assessment Notification, 2006, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India.
  10. Kumar, P., Morawska, L., Martani, C., et al. (2018). The rise of low-cost sensing for managing air pollution in cities. Environment International, 120, 199-210. DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.08.016
  11. Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), "Guidelines for Ambient Air Quality Monitoring," CPCB, Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India, 2011.
  12. World Health Organization (WHO), "Air Pollution and Health," Fact Sheet, WHO, 2021. Available online: www.who.int

This research paper examines the comparative aspects of manual and online ambient air quality monitoring systems, highlighting their roles in regulatory compliance within India. Despite technological advancements favouring online monitoring for its convenience and immediacy, manual monitoring methods remain indispensable due to their superior accuracy, reliability, and traceability. By analysing the guidelines mandated by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), this paper emphasizes the continued necessity of manual sampling for critical regulatory submissions such as Form V and Environmental Clearances (EC). The paper concludes with strategic recommendations advocating an integrated monitoring approach, combining the strengths of both manual and online methodologies for optimal environmental management and regulatory compliance.

Keywords : Manual Air Quality Monitoring, Online Monitoring Systems, CPCB, MPCB, Regulatory Compliance, Environmental Statement (Form V), Environmental Clearances (EC), Traceability, Air Pollution, Integrated Monitoring Approach.

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