International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 13 Issue: 01 | Jan 2026
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
www.irjet.net
Impact of vehicular pollution on overall quality of urban life Abhisar Singh Master of Urban and Regional Planning Faculty of Architecture and Planning, Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam Technical University Lucknow, India ---------------------------------------------------------------------***---------------------------------------------------------------------
Abstract - Rapid urbanisation and motorisation have
disproportionately impacting vulnerable populations. Understanding these impacts is essential for integrated urban, transport, and environmental planning.
significantly increased vehicular pollution in cities, making road transport one of the dominant contributors to urban air pollution. Pollutants such as particulate matter (PM₂.₅, PM₁₀), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and carbon monoxide (CO) have severe implications not only for environmental quality but also for public health and overall urban livability. Vehicular pollution affects multiple dimensions of urban life, including physical health, commuting experience, walkability, comfort, productivity, and social equity.
2. NEED OF THE STUDY Indian cities are witnessing rapid growth in private vehicle ownership due to urban sprawl and weak public transport systems. Studies indicate that vehicular emissions contribute nearly 30–40% of urban air pollution in major Indian cities. While existing research largely focuses on air quality or health impacts, limited attention has been given to the broader effects of vehicular pollution on urban livability and everyday experiences.
This study examines the impact of vehicular pollution on the overall quality of urban life from a planning and policy perspective. The research is based on a qualitative analysis of secondary data obtained from government reports, published literature, and policy documents. Case studies of Delhi and Bengaluru are analysed to understand pollution intensity, vehicular characteristics, health impacts, livability outcomes, and policy responses.
There is a need for a planning-oriented and integrated study that links vehicular pollution with quality of urban life parameters such as comfort, mobility, safety, and equity.
3. AIM AND OBJECTIVES
The findings indicate that vehicular pollution significantly deteriorates air quality, increases health risks, reduces streetlevel comfort, and negatively affects daily urban experiences. Car-dependent urban forms and inadequate public transport exacerbate these impacts. The study concludes that addressing vehicular pollution requires integrated urban and transport planning approaches, including public transport strengthening, transit-oriented development, non-motorised transport promotion, and demand management measures to enhance the overall quality of urban life.
Aim To study the impact of vehicular pollution on the overall quality of urban life. Objectives
Key Words: Vehicular Pollution, Urban Livability, Air Quality, Transport Planning, Public Health, Indian Cities
1.INTRODUCTION Vehicular pollution has emerged as a major environmental and urban livability challenge in rapidly urbanising cities. The growth of private motor vehicles, coupled with inadequate public transport systems, has led to increased emissions of particulate matter and gaseous pollutants. Road transport is a key contributor to urban air pollution, particularly PM₂.₅, PM₁₀, and NO₂, which pose serious risks to human health.
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Impact Factor value: 8.315
To study the nature and extent of vehicular pollution in urban areas
To analyse the impact of vehicular pollution on key parameters of urban quality of life
To examine national and international experiences related to vehicular pollution
To review government policies and programmes aimed at reducing vehicular pollution.
4. SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS Scope
Beyond health impacts, vehicular pollution affects the overall quality of urban life by reducing walkability, increasing commuting stress, degrading public spaces, and
© 2026, IRJET
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Focus on vehicular pollution from road-based transport in urban areas
Assessment of environmental, health, social, and livability impacts
Literature-based study using secondary data
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