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Char Fasson, situated in the Khulna Division of Bangladesh (coordinates 22.1865° N, 90.7610° E), occupies a precarious and dynamic position within the Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta. This 'char' – a fluvial island – is formed by sediment deposition from the mighty Padma River (the Bangladesh name for the Ganges), constantly shifting and reshaping the landscape. The terrain is predominantly low-lying, rarely exceeding a few meters above sea level, making it exceptionally vulnerable to flooding and tidal surges, exacerbated by climate change. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields, primarily rice paddies and jute cultivation, interspersed with pockets of mangrove forest along the riverbanks. This agricultural intensity contributes to localized air pollution from fertilizer use and seasonal burning of crop residue. Char Fasson’s location within the delta places it downwind of industrial belts concentrated in Khulna city and the wider southwestern region, exposing it to transported pollutants. The urban–rural gradient is gradual; Char Fasson itself is a small town, but its proximity to larger population centers means it experiences a degree of urban influence. The riverine environment, while providing livelihoods, also influences air quality; humidity levels are consistently high, which can trap pollutants close to the ground, and river breezes, while sometimes dispersing pollutants, can also carry them from upstream sources. The flat topography limits vertical mixing, further contributing to stagnant air conditions, particularly during periods of low wind speed. The island’s fragile nature means any changes in land use or increased industrial activity can have disproportionate impacts on air quality.

Char Fasson’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The monsoon season, typically spanning June to October, brings heavy rainfall and increased humidity, initially flushing some pollutants from the atmosphere. However, the subsequent period of reduced wind speeds and increased cloud cover often leads to a build-up of particulate matter, particularly from agricultural burning after the harvest. November to February represents the driest and coolest period, frequently characterized by dense fog, which severely restricts visibility and traps pollutants near the ground. Temperature inversions are common during these months, further exacerbating the problem. March to May marks the pre-monsoon season, with rising temperatures and increasing dust from agricultural activities and construction. The combination of heat and stagnant air can lead to uncomfortable conditions and elevated levels of certain pollutants. Outdoor activity is generally best avoided during the foggy months (December-January) and the hot, dusty pre-monsoon period (April-May). Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should take extra precautions during these times, limiting outdoor exposure and ensuring adequate ventilation indoors. The prevalence of open fires for cooking and heating, particularly during the cooler months, also contributes to localized air pollution. While the monsoon rains offer temporary relief, the overall air quality remains a concern due to the interplay of regional pollution sources, meteorological conditions, and the island’s unique geographical characteristics.