Application of Environmental Magnetism for Pollution Assessment in Eastern Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India

ABSTRACT Urbanisation and increasing vehicular emissions have led to a marked deterioration in air quality, particularly in rapidly developing Indian cities. This study evaluates the extent of anthropogenic pollution in the eastern region of Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, using a combined approach of magnetic susceptibility and Scanning Electron Microscope-Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) analysis. A total of 111 samples, including road dust, topsoil, and tree leaf dust, were collected along five major traverses and analysed for low-frequency magnetic susceptibility (χlf) and frequency-dependent susceptibility (χfd%) to assess pollution load and magnetic grain characteristics. SEM-EDS imaging further confirmed the presence of angular to sub-rounded magnetic particles such as magnetite, hematite, ilmenite, pyrite, and trace heavy metals, including Pb, Ti, and Ce, associated with fossil fuel combustion and vehicular abrasion. Spatial variation in χlf values enabled the classification of road sections into low, moderate, and high pollution zones, with northern and central parts of the city exhibiting significantly elevated magnetic signatures. The results underscore the effectiveness of magnetic susceptibility measurements and SEM imaging as rapid, non-destructive tools for urban pollution assessment. This integrated approach offers valuable insights for environmental monitoring, urban planning, and future pollution mitigation strategies in growing metropolitan areas.