Harmful effects of air pollution on physiological activities of Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre

Air pollution tolerance of the plant Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre, as well as, its effect on metabolic activities of the plant was studied with reference to concentration of air pollutants on comparative basis in selected sites around Udaipur city in polluted and unpolluted areas. The tree species being very common in and around Udaipur city of Rajasthan, India as roadside plant. The quality of air in terms of RSPM, SPM, SO₂ and NO₂ on respective sites along with biochemical parameters of the leaves, i.e., chlorophyll content, total carbohydrate, total protein, dust-capturing capacity, leaf size and enzyme activity were assessed in experimental sites. The data obtained were further subjected to ANOVA, which gave significant values. Our studies confirm that industries are the prominent sources of the elevated level of air pollutants that affect flora and health of local population.