Kālihāti Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Kālihāti, nestled within the Rājshāhi division of Bangladesh at coordinates 24.3833°N, 89.9833°E, occupies a relatively flat alluvial plain characteristic of the Ganges Delta. The city’s elevation is low, averaging around 20-30 meters above sea level, making it susceptible to seasonal flooding. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, dominated by rice paddies and jute cultivation, interspersed with small pockets of deciduous forests. The nearby Padma River, a major distributary of the Ganges, exerts a significant influence on the local climate and acts as a transport corridor. Kālihāti’s urban character is that of a developing market town, serving as a regional hub for agricultural produce. The urban-rural gradient is sharp, transitioning quickly to intensely farmed land. This proximity to agricultural activities, while economically vital, contributes to air quality concerns through biomass burning for land preparation and crop residue disposal. Furthermore, the region experiences limited industrial development, but brick kilns, common throughout Bangladesh, are present in the surrounding areas, adding to particulate matter pollution. The flat terrain and limited natural ventilation exacerbate the concentration of pollutants, particularly during stable atmospheric conditions. The city’s location within the delta also means high humidity and potential for stagnant air.

Kālihāti’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the monsoon and post-monsoon climate. The pre-monsoon months of March to May are typically the worst for air quality. Rising temperatures and dry conditions encourage agricultural burning, releasing significant amounts of particulate matter and other pollutants. This period often experiences stagnant air, trapping pollutants near the ground. The monsoon season (June to October) brings relief, with heavy rainfall effectively washing away many pollutants and increasing humidity, suppressing dust. However, increased cloud cover can also lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants at lower altitudes. November to February represents the post-monsoon season, characterized by cooler temperatures and relatively lower humidity. While generally better than the pre-monsoon period, this time can see increased pollution from domestic heating using biomass fuels and lingering effects of agricultural practices. Fog formation during cooler mornings can further exacerbate particulate matter concentrations. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during March-May and foggy mornings. Monitoring local weather patterns and avoiding peak pollution times is crucial for maintaining respiratory health.