Marar Air Quality Index (AQI)

Loading live AQI data...

Loading weather snapshot...

Loading historical AQI trends...

Marar, a small town in the Patna district of Bihar, India, sits at coordinates 25.5392°N, 86.5074°E. The landscape is characteristic of the Indo-Gangetic Plain – a flat, fertile alluvial plain formed by the Ganges and its tributaries. Marar’s elevation is relatively low, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. The town is situated approximately 25km southwest of Patna, the state capital, and benefits from the agricultural productivity of the surrounding region, primarily rice and wheat cultivation. However, this agricultural activity also contributes to seasonal biomass burning, a significant source of particulate matter. The proximity to Patna introduces a degree of urban influence, including vehicular emissions and industrial activity emanating from the larger city. The urban-rural gradient is noticeable, with Marar exhibiting a more agrarian character than Patna, but increasingly experiencing the pressures of population growth and associated infrastructure development. The Phalgu River, a tributary of the Ganges, flows nearby, but its influence on local air circulation is limited due to the flat terrain. The lack of significant topographical features hinders natural ventilation, exacerbating pollution build-up, particularly during calm weather conditions. The region’s climate, a humid subtropical climate, further influences pollution dynamics.

Marar experiences a distinct seasonal air quality pattern dictated by the monsoon and post-monsoon periods. The summer months (April-June) bring high temperatures and stagnant air, leading to a build-up of dust and pollutants from local sources. This is often worsened by agricultural fires preparing fields for the monsoon. The arrival of the monsoon (July-September) provides temporary relief, as rainfall washes away particulate matter and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, increased cloud cover can also contribute to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. Post-monsoon (October-November) is often the worst period for air quality. Cooler temperatures, calm winds, and the widespread burning of crop residue after the harvest create a hazardous mix of smoke and fog. This period sees the highest concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10. Winter (December-February) brings cooler, drier conditions with frequent fog, further reducing visibility and trapping pollutants. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during October-November and December-February. Avoiding peak hours for commuting and using masks when outdoors are recommended precautions. The best time for outdoor activity is generally during the monsoon season, though caution is still advised due to potential dampness and associated health concerns.