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Chaita, a small town in the Gaya district of Bihar, India, occupies a relatively flat section of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. Situated at coordinates 25.7671°N, 85.8792°E, its elevation is modest, contributing to limited natural air dispersion. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, characterized by intensive farming of rice, wheat, and pulses. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, introduces particulate matter from crop residue burning and fertilizer application. Chaita’s position isn’t near major industrial belts, but regional brick kilns and small-scale industries contribute to background pollution levels. The Phalgu River, a tributary of the Ganges, flows nearby, but its influence on local air quality is limited due to the prevailing wind patterns. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; Chaita serves as a market town for surrounding villages, experiencing increased vehicular traffic and localized emissions during market days. Dust from unpaved roads is a significant contributor to particulate matter, particularly during the drier months. The town’s compact size and limited green spaces further exacerbate pollution concentration, hindering natural pollutant removal. Understanding this geographical context is crucial for addressing Chaita’s air quality challenges.

Chaita’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern. The post-monsoon period (October-November) often sees a deterioration in air quality due to stagnant air and temperature inversions trapping pollutants. Crop residue burning after the harvest season significantly elevates particulate matter levels during this time. Winter (December-February) brings cooler temperatures and increased fog, further exacerbating pollution as vertical mixing is reduced. This is generally the worst period for air quality. The pre-monsoon months (March-May) witness rising temperatures and dust storms, contributing to high levels of coarse particulate matter. The monsoon season (June-September) provides a temporary respite, as rainfall washes away pollutants and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, increased cloud cover can also lead to temperature inversions. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during October-February. March-May requires caution due to dust. The monsoon offers the most favourable conditions for outdoor activity, though vigilance regarding waterborne diseases is necessary. Localised burning of waste remains a year-round concern, impacting air quality consistently.