Khāndhār Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Khāndhār, a small town in Rajasthan’s Sawai Madhopur district, occupies a unique geographic position within the eastern Aravalli Range. Situated at approximately 26.0233°N, 76.6097°E, the town’s terrain is characterised by undulating hills and rocky outcrops, typical of the region. The surrounding landscape is predominantly semi-arid, transitioning into more arid conditions further west. Khāndhār’s elevation, while not exceptionally high, contributes to localised temperature variations and potential for temperature inversions. The nearest significant water body is the Chambal River, located some distance to the southeast, which doesn’t directly influence local air circulation patterns but contributes to regional humidity. The town is nestled within a predominantly agricultural zone, with farming being the primary livelihood for many residents. However, the increasing use of agricultural machinery and potential for crop residue burning contribute to localised particulate matter emissions. The urban-rural gradient is sharp; Khāndhār itself is a relatively small settlement, surrounded by sparsely populated rural areas. This means pollution sources, while perhaps fewer in number, can have a disproportionate impact on local air quality due to limited dispersion. Dust from unpaved roads and construction activities further exacerbates the situation, particularly during drier months. The Aravalli hills, while providing some natural shielding, can also trap pollutants during calm weather conditions.

Khāndhār experiences a distinct seasonal air quality pattern dictated by the monsoon and prevailing winds. The pre-monsoon months of April and May are typically the worst for air quality. Rising temperatures create strong convective currents, lifting dust and pollutants into the air, while stagnant conditions can lead to build-up. The arrival of the monsoon in late June/early July brings a temporary respite, 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, from September to November, air quality generally remains improved, though agricultural burning after the harvest season can cause localised spikes in pollution. Winter, from December to February, sees a return to poorer air quality. Cooler temperatures and calm winds promote temperature inversions, trapping pollutants emitted from household cooking (biomass burning) and vehicular traffic. Fog formation further reduces visibility and exacerbates respiratory issues. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during April-May and December-February. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; winds from the west often carry dust from more arid regions.