Dumraon Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Dumraon, a town nestled in the Bhabhua subdivision of Bihar, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the fertile plains of the Indo-Gangetic Basin. Located at approximately 25.5526° N latitude and 84.1515° E longitude, the town’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the alluvial plains formed by the Ganges River and its tributaries. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields, primarily dedicated to rice and maize cultivation, interspersed with scattered villages and small settlements. This intensive agricultural activity, while vital for the regional economy, contributes to localised air pollution through the burning of crop residue after harvest. Dumraon’s proximity to the Karmanasha River, though providing a source of water, doesn't significantly influence regional air quality patterns due to the prevailing wind directions and the relatively small scale of the river's impact. The urban–rural gradient around Dumraon is gradual, with agricultural land steadily transitioning to residential and commercial areas within the town itself. While not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, the town’s location within Bihar places it within reach of industrial zones in areas like Barauni and Munger, potentially leading to the advection of pollutants on certain wind patterns. The relatively low elevation (around 125 meters above sea level) contributes to temperature inversions during cooler months, trapping pollutants closer to the ground and exacerbating air quality issues. The flat topography limits natural ventilation, further hindering pollutant dispersal.

Dumraon’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The monsoon season, typically spanning from June to September, brings relief from accumulated pollutants as frequent rainfall washes particulate matter from the atmosphere and strong winds disperse emissions. However, the pre-monsoon period (March-May) often witnesses a significant deterioration in air quality. This is largely due to the combination of rising temperatures, stagnant air conditions, and the widespread practice of crop residue burning following the winter harvest. Temperature inversions are common during this period, trapping pollutants near the ground. The dry winter months (November-February) also present challenges. Cold temperatures lead to increased use of biomass fuels for heating and cooking, contributing to elevated levels of particulate matter. Fog, a frequent occurrence during these months, further exacerbates the problem by trapping pollutants and reducing visibility. The post-monsoon period (October) sees a gradual improvement as rainfall decreases and wind speeds increase. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and winter months, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution episodes. Wearing masks and avoiding areas with heavy traffic or biomass burning are recommended preventative measures. The monsoon months generally offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activity, although occasional heavy rainfall can still impact air quality temporarily.