Baharampur Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Baharampur, nestled in the Murshidabad district of West Bengal, India, occupies a geographically significant position on the eastern bank of the Bhagirathi River, a major distributary of the Ganges. Located at approximately 24.1000°N latitude and 88.2500°E longitude, the city’s terrain is largely flat alluvial plain, typical of the Ganges Delta. This low-lying landscape, with an average elevation of around 16 meters (52 feet), contributes to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. Baharampur functions as a crucial regional hub, connecting the northern districts of West Bengal with Kolkata. Surrounding the city is a predominantly agricultural landscape, characterized by intensive rice cultivation and jute farming. While not a major industrial centre itself, Baharampur is within reach of industrial belts further south towards Kolkata, and experiences some localized industrial activity related to food processing and silk weaving. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with densely populated urban cores transitioning quickly to agricultural fields. The river, while providing a vital water source, can also trap pollutants during periods of low flow, exacerbating air quality concerns. The city’s location within the Indo-Gangetic Plain means it is susceptible to stagnant air masses, hindering pollutant dispersal, particularly during winter months.

Baharampur’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern heavily influenced by the monsoon and post-monsoon conditions. The monsoon season (June-September) generally brings temporary relief, as heavy rainfall effectively washes away particulate matter, leading to cleaner air. However, high humidity can also foster mold growth, impacting respiratory health. October-November sees a deterioration in air quality as the monsoon retreats, and agricultural burning of crop residue becomes prevalent, releasing significant amounts of smoke and pollutants. This period, coupled with cooler temperatures and the onset of temperature inversions, traps pollutants near the ground. Winter (December-February) is typically the worst period for air quality, with consistently high levels of particulate matter due to stagnant air, fog, and increased use of fossil fuels for heating. March-May brings rising temperatures and drier conditions, often accompanied by dust storms originating from the arid regions to the west, further degrading air quality. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the post-monsoon and winter months. Avoiding peak traffic hours and using masks can offer some protection. The months of July-September generally offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activities.