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Golāghāt, nestled in the Karimganj district of Assam, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Barak Valley, a fertile and densely populated region bordering Bangladesh. Located at approximately 26.52°N, 93.97°E, the town sits on the fringes of the lush, subtropical hills of the Barail Range, a defining feature of the landscape. The elevation varies gently, generally ranging from 30 to 60 meters above sea level, contributing to a relatively flat urban footprint interspersed with minor undulations. The Khowai River, a tributary of the Barak River, flows nearby, influencing local microclimates and providing a vital water source. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, characterized by rice paddies, tea plantations, and interspersed areca nut groves – a common feature of the region’s rural economy. This agricultural activity, while crucial for livelihoods, can contribute to localised air pollution through biomass burning during clearing and harvesting periods. Golāghāt exhibits a clear urban–rural gradient; the town itself represents a modest urban centre, while the immediate periphery transitions rapidly into intensive agricultural land and forested hills. The proximity to the Indo-Bangladesh border also influences regional dynamics, including potential transboundary pollution events. The Barail Range acts as a partial barrier, sometimes trapping pollutants, while prevailing winds from the east, influenced by the Bay of Bengal, can carry moisture and, occasionally, pollutants inland. The valley’s topography, combined with the agricultural practices, creates a unique setting where air quality is intrinsically linked to both natural processes and human activities.

Golāghāt’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting air quality. The monsoon season, typically spanning June to September, brings torrential rainfall, effectively cleansing the atmosphere and significantly reducing particulate matter. High humidity and frequent cloud cover also limit sunlight, suppressing photochemical smog formation. However, the monsoon also introduces challenges; increased biomass burning for agricultural purposes, particularly during pre-monsoon months (March-May), can lead to elevated levels of smoke and particulate pollution. The dry season, from October to May, presents a different set of concerns. Lower rainfall and reduced vegetation cover mean fewer natural cleansing mechanisms. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler months (December-February), trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating air quality issues. Fog, frequently occurring in December and January, further restricts atmospheric mixing, concentrating pollutants. The agricultural cycle also plays a role; post-harvest burning, while regulated, can still occur, releasing significant amounts of smoke. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of fog or temperature inversions. Outdoor activities are generally more favourable during the monsoon months, although heavy rainfall can pose other challenges. The transition periods – pre-monsoon and post-monsoon – often see the most variable air quality, requiring vigilance and awareness of local conditions. Understanding these seasonal patterns is crucial for mitigating the impacts of air pollution on public health.