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Beur, a small town nestled in the Bhojpur district of Bihar, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the fertile plains of the Indo-Gangetic Basin. Located at approximately 25.5690° N latitude and 85.0944° E longitude, Beur’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the alluvial plains formed by the Ganges River and its tributaries. The surrounding landscape is dominated by agricultural fields – primarily rice and wheat cultivation – stretching as far as the eye can see, contributing to seasonal biomass burning. The town sits relatively low in elevation, which, combined with its location within the Gangetic plain, often leads to stagnant air conditions, particularly during cooler months. Beur’s proximity to the Gandak River, though providing a source of water, can also contribute to localized humidity, influencing atmospheric stability and pollutant dispersion. While not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, Beur is part of a broader agricultural region experiencing increasing mechanization and fertilizer use, which can impact air quality through ammonia emissions and dust generation. The urban–rural gradient around Beur is gradual; the town itself is small, with a predominantly rural character extending outwards, meaning that agricultural practices and rural activities significantly influence the local air quality. The lack of significant topographical features hinders natural ventilation, exacerbating the potential for pollutant accumulation, especially when combined with regional weather patterns.

Beur’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The monsoon season, typically spanning June to September, brings relief from accumulated pollutants due to frequent rainfall and strong winds that effectively disperse airborne particles. However, the preceding pre-monsoon months (March-May) often witness a significant deterioration in air quality. High temperatures, low wind speeds, and frequent temperature inversions trap pollutants near the ground, leading to increased concentrations of particulate matter and other emissions. Agricultural burning, a common practice for clearing fields after the harvest, intensifies during this period, adding substantially to the pollution load. The post-monsoon season (October-November) also presents challenges, with cooler temperatures and calmer winds contributing to stagnant air and the lingering effects of agricultural residue burning. Winter months (December-February) are generally the most challenging, characterized by dense fog and near-freezing temperatures, which further restrict pollutant dispersion. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during these periods, limiting outdoor exposure and considering the use of air purifiers. During the monsoon, while generally cleaner, heavy rainfall can still lead to localized flooding and associated waterborne health risks. The gradual transition periods, spring and autumn, require careful monitoring as conditions can shift rapidly, impacting air quality unpredictably.