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Bitkine, situated in the Guéra region of Chad at coordinates 11.9817°N, 18.2125°E, occupies a challenging geographical position within the Sahelian zone. The city’s terrain is largely characterised by undulating plains and low hills, typical of the region, with an elevation that contributes to relatively stable atmospheric conditions. Bitkine isn’t proximate to any major bodies of water; its location is inland, relying on seasonal rainfall and groundwater resources. The surrounding landscape is predominantly savannah grassland, transitioning into more arid areas further north and east. Agriculture forms the backbone of the regional economy, with subsistence farming and livestock rearing prevalent. This agricultural activity, while vital, contributes to particulate matter pollution through land clearing and seasonal burning of vegetation. The urban-rural gradient is sharp; Bitkine serves as a regional market centre, drawing populations from surrounding rural villages. Dust from the Sahara Desert, carried by prevailing winds, significantly impacts air quality, particularly during the dry season. The lack of substantial industrial development within Bitkine itself means that local emissions are primarily from domestic sources – cooking fires, vehicle exhaust, and waste burning – but regional agricultural practices exert a strong influence on the overall air quality profile. The city’s location within a broad, flat plain limits natural dispersion of pollutants.

Bitkine experiences a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly influencing its air quality. The dry season, roughly from November to May, is characterised by consistently high levels of particulate matter. Harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara, carry vast quantities of dust, reducing visibility and exacerbating respiratory issues. Temperature inversions are common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trapping pollutants near the ground. February and March are typically the worst months for dust exposure. The onset of the wet season in June brings a temporary improvement in air quality as rainfall washes away dust and suppresses airborne particles. However, increased humidity can also promote the growth of mould and allergens. July and August see the highest rainfall, offering the most favourable conditions for outdoor activity. As the wet season wanes in September and October, agricultural burning increases in preparation for the next planting season, leading to a spike in smoke and particulate pollution. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during the dry season and periods of agricultural burning. Using masks and keeping windows closed during peak pollution times are recommended preventative measures.