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Dhubaria, a small town nestled within the Dhaka Division of Bangladesh, occupies a geographically significant position within the Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta. Located at approximately 24.0104° N, 89.8404° E, its terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the deltaic landscape, with elevations rarely exceeding a few meters above sea level. This low-lying topography contributes to poor air circulation, trapping pollutants and exacerbating air quality issues. Dhubaria’s proximity to the Buriganga River, a major tributary of the Ganges, influences local humidity and temperature, but also presents a potential source of waterborne pollutants that can become aerosolized, impacting air quality. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural land – primarily rice paddies and jute cultivation – interspersed with small villages and increasingly, informal settlements. The urban–rural gradient is gradual, with Dhubaria acting as a transitional zone between the densely populated urban sprawl of Dhaka and the more rural agricultural hinterland. While not directly within Dhaka's core industrial belt, Dhubaria is within commuting distance, and experiences indirect impacts from industrial emissions and vehicular traffic. Agricultural practices, including the burning of crop residue after harvest, contribute to seasonal particulate matter pollution. The flat terrain and limited natural barriers mean that pollutants originating from Dhaka and surrounding areas are easily transported to Dhubaria, compounding local sources and creating a complex air quality challenge. The deltaic soil composition, often rich in clay, can also contribute to dust generation, particularly during the dry season.

Dhubaria’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by Bangladesh’s monsoon climate. The monsoon season, typically spanning June to October, brings periods of heavy rainfall which naturally helps to cleanse the atmosphere, reducing particulate matter concentrations. However, the increased humidity can exacerbate respiratory issues for sensitive individuals. The pre-monsoon period (March-May) is often the most challenging, characterized by hot, dry conditions and stagnant air. Temperature inversions frequently occur, trapping pollutants close to the ground, leading to a build-up of smog. Agricultural burning, a common practice to clear fields for the next planting season, significantly contributes to particulate pollution during these months. November to February represents the cooler, drier season. While temperatures are more moderate, fog is common, particularly in the mornings, which restricts visibility and traps pollutants. Wind speeds are generally low during this period, further hindering dispersion. The combination of fog and agricultural activities can create particularly poor air quality conditions. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during the pre-monsoon and winter months, especially on days with dense fog. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable. Public health advisories regarding agricultural burning should be heeded, and efforts to promote cleaner farming practices are crucial for mitigating seasonal pollution peaks.