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Pirojpur, a small city in southwestern Bangladesh within the Barishal Division, occupies a low-lying deltaic landscape characteristic of the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna river system. Situated at approximately 22.58°N latitude and 89.98°E longitude, the city’s terrain is remarkably flat, with elevations rarely exceeding a few meters above sea level. This makes it highly vulnerable to flooding, a recurring feature of the region’s climate. Pirojpur is interwoven with a network of rivers and canals, notably the Pashur River, which significantly influences local humidity and wind patterns. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, dominated by rice paddies, shrimp farms, and fruit orchards. While Pirojpur itself isn’t a major industrial hub, its proximity to larger industrial areas in Khulna and the port city of Mongla contributes to regional air pollution transport. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city centre is densely populated, transitioning quickly to agricultural lands. This proximity to agricultural practices, including biomass burning for land preparation and fertilizer use, directly impacts local air quality. The constant interplay between land and water creates a unique microclimate, influencing the dispersion of pollutants and the formation of localized air quality issues. The deltaic nature also means high levels of moisture, potentially exacerbating particulate matter issues.

Pirojpur’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the monsoon and post-monsoon climate. The pre-monsoon months (March-May) typically see deteriorating air quality. Rising temperatures and reduced rainfall lead to increased dust and particulate matter from agricultural activities and road traffic. This period is often characterized by stagnant air, exacerbating pollution. The monsoon season (June-October) brings relief, with heavy rainfall effectively washing away pollutants and improving air quality. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of mold and mildew, impacting respiratory health. November-February represents the post-monsoon season, often experiencing cooler temperatures and calmer winds. This can lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground, particularly in the early mornings. Fog is also common during these months, further reducing visibility and potentially increasing particulate matter concentrations. For those with respiratory sensitivities, avoiding outdoor activity during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods is advisable. The monsoon months generally offer the best air quality for outdoor pursuits. Localized burning of crop residue after harvest in the dry season is a significant contributor to seasonal peaks. Monitoring wind direction is crucial, as pollutants from nearby industrial areas can be transported into Pirojpur.