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Srīpur, nestled within the Dhaka Governorate of Bangladesh at coordinates 24.2000°N, 90.4731°E, is a municipality characterized by a relatively flat, low-lying topography typical of the Bengal Delta. The city’s elevation is minimal, contributing to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. Srīpur is situated amidst a predominantly agricultural landscape, with rice paddies and jute cultivation dominating the surrounding areas. However, its proximity to the expanding industrial belts around Dhaka city, particularly those focused on textiles and brick manufacturing, significantly impacts its air quality. The Turag River flows nearby, but its capacity to mitigate pollution is limited due to heavy industrial discharge and seasonal fluctuations in flow. The urban-rural gradient is becoming increasingly blurred as Dhaka’s sprawl extends outwards, bringing with it increased vehicular traffic and construction activity. This transition zone experiences a complex interplay of rural emissions – from biomass burning for cooking and agricultural waste – and urban pollutants. The city’s location within the monsoon-prone Bengal Delta means seasonal flooding can exacerbate pollution by mobilizing sediment and stagnant water, creating breeding grounds for vectors and contributing to localized air quality issues. The lack of significant natural barriers to airflow means Srīpur is vulnerable to transboundary pollution from the wider Dhaka megacity.

Srīpur’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern heavily influenced by the monsoon climate. The pre-monsoon season (March-May) is typically the worst period, characterized by high temperatures and stagnant air, leading to the build-up of particulate matter from construction, brick kilns, and vehicular emissions. April and May are particularly challenging months for those with respiratory sensitivities. The arrival of the monsoon (June-October) brings temporary relief as rainfall washes away pollutants and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, the monsoon also introduces challenges – waterlogged streets contribute to increased vehicle emissions, and damp conditions can foster mold growth, impacting indoor air quality. Post-monsoon (November-February) sees a gradual deterioration as temperatures drop and temperature inversions become more frequent, trapping pollutants near the ground. This period is marked by increased biomass burning for warmth, further degrading air quality. Fog, common during the cooler months, exacerbates particulate matter concentrations. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. Investing in indoor air purification and wearing masks during peak pollution periods are recommended preventative measures.