Estimation of Risk from Air Pollution in the Underground Highway Proposed to Construct in Seoul, Korea

The possible air pollution problems in a proposed underground highway are discussed using carbon monoxide (CO) as an indicator. Carbon monoxide concentrations in the underground highway depend on several factors, including the size of tunnel, the number of automobiles, the CO emission rate, and the tunnel ventilation rate. Using the estimated values, CO concentrations in the underground highway can be predicted. Without proper ventilation system, CO concentration in the underground highway can be dangerous level. However, the cost of operating the mandatory mechanical ventilation system may be tremendouslyy high and may be technically unrealistic to implement. If the underground highway is constructed with proper ventilation system, a continuous air pollution monitoring system with alarming function must be installed to alert personnel of serious air pollution built up in the underground highway. Traffic must be restricted, whenever the inside air pollution levels exceed agreed values. Short distances between evacuation exits are necessary for emergency situations or malfunction of ventilation system.