Dohta Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Dohta, Bihar, situated at approximately 26.1071° latitude and 87.9091° longitude, occupies a geographically significant position within the fertile Gangetic plains of eastern India. The city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Indo-Gangetic Plain, with minimal elevation changes. This flatness, while conducive to agriculture, unfortunately contributes to air quality challenges as it limits natural dispersion of pollutants. Dohta lies within a region heavily reliant on agriculture, with vast stretches of farmland surrounding the urban area, primarily cultivating rice and maize. This agricultural activity, particularly the burning of crop residue after harvest, is a significant contributor to seasonal particulate matter pollution. To the west, a gradually ascending landscape marks the transition towards the Chota Nagpur Plateau, though this is distant enough to have a limited direct impact on Dohta’s immediate air quality. The nearest major river, the Ganga, flows several kilometers to the south, offering some potential for moisture and rainfall, but its influence on local air quality is generally indirect. The urban–rural gradient around Dohta is relatively sharp, with the city acting as a small commercial and residential hub for the surrounding agricultural communities. Limited industrial activity exists within Dohta itself, but nearby industrial belts in larger Bihar cities can contribute to transboundary pollution episodes. The flat topography and surrounding agricultural landscape create a setting where stagnant air conditions and localized pollution sources can readily accumulate.

Dohta’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The pre-monsoon season (March-May) typically witnesses the worst air quality, driven by agricultural burning. Farmers clearing fields after the harvest season release substantial amounts of smoke and particulate matter, creating a persistent haze. Temperature inversions are common during this period, trapping pollutants close to the ground. The monsoon season (June-September) brings relief, with frequent rainfall washing away pollutants and strong winds dispersing them. However, even during the monsoon, periods of low wind speed and persistent humidity can lead to localized pollution build-up. The post-monsoon season (October-November) sees a return of agricultural burning, though often less intense than in the pre-monsoon period. Winter months (December-February) are characterized by cooler temperatures and frequent fog, which further restricts air movement and exacerbates pollution. The combination of cold air and stagnant conditions can lead to elevated levels of pollutants. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and winter months, limiting outdoor activity during peak pollution periods. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable. The monsoon months generally offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activities, though vigilance is still warranted during periods of low wind and high humidity.