An Assessment of Vehicular Emission in the Vicinity of Selected Markets in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria

This study assessed pollutants concentration at selected markets in Owerri. These were purposively after careful consideration of all major the area; considered to be more congested during day as a result open assess road junctions coupled with high density vehicular movement, presence offices, residential buildings, and human activities. Five air from emissions monitored, namely: carbon monoxide (CO), dioxide (CO2), nitrogen (NO2), particulate matter (PM 2.5) 10). Assessments carried out within 3 hours per dual diurnal section using approved standard methods which converted 1-hour mean for morning afternoon period sampling 7-10 am 2-5 pm. periods are known peak movement area. Results show that highest level CO (0.293 - 0.387 ppm) was recorded Alaba market is less than permissible limit 35 ppm given by national ambient quality (NAAQS). The range CO2 (1153 1875 higher 314 ppm. NO2 (0.116 0.297 Relief also (0.100 NAAQS. PM 2.5 10 (0.011 0.029 μg/m3) (0.065 0.172 respectively far lower (150 NAAQS WHO (base on target 1) standards. study, therefore, concludes there significant impact emission vehicles Owerri metropolis indicates risk health problems due NO2. It, recommends an adequate mechanism should put place decongest traffic city especially near so have substantial reduction improve livability citizens.