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Dumri, a small town nestled in the Jamui district of Bihar, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the broader Chota Nagpur Plateau region. Located at approximately 25.5356° N latitude and 85.5996° E longitude, Dumri’s terrain is characterized by gently undulating hills and fertile plains, typical of the plateau’s southern fringe. The elevation, around 215 meters (705 feet) above sea level, contributes to localized temperature variations and influences atmospheric stability. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – primarily rice and maize cultivation – interspersed with patches of deciduous forests, a characteristic feature of the region. This agricultural activity, while vital for the local economy, can contribute to seasonal particulate matter pollution. Dumri’s proximity to the Jharkhand border means it’s also susceptible to transboundary pollution drift from industrial areas and mining operations in neighboring states. The urban–rural gradient around Dumri is relatively sharp; the town itself is compact, transitioning quickly to agricultural land and then to forested areas. While not directly adjacent to a major river, the area receives significant rainfall during the monsoon season, which can temporarily flush pollutants from the atmosphere, but also lead to waterlogging and associated issues. The town’s relatively isolated location, while offering some respite from the intense pollution of larger metropolitan areas, also limits access to advanced air quality monitoring and mitigation technologies. The prevailing winds, generally from the east during the monsoon and shifting to the west during the dry season, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants within the local area.

Dumri’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by the region’s monsoon climate. The monsoon season, typically from June to September, brings relief from accumulated pollutants as heavy rainfall washes particulate matter from the atmosphere. However, this period also sees increased humidity and occasional stagnant air conditions, particularly during breaks in the monsoon, which can trap pollutants. The pre-monsoon months (March-May) are often the most challenging, characterized by high temperatures, low humidity, and frequent temperature inversions. These inversions trap cooler air near the ground, preventing the vertical dispersion of pollutants emitted from agricultural burning, cooking fires, and any localized industrial activity. The dry season (October-February) presents a mixed picture. While temperatures are generally lower than in the pre-monsoon months, the lack of rainfall and the prevalence of fog, especially in December and January, significantly reduce visibility and trap pollutants close to the ground. Agricultural burning, a common practice for clearing fields after the harvest, contributes substantially to particulate matter pollution during this period. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and winter months, limiting outdoor exertion and considering the use of air purifiers. During the monsoon, while overall air quality improves, those with allergies should be mindful of increased pollen and mold counts. The combination of temperature, wind patterns, and agricultural practices dictates the air quality profile throughout the year, demanding localized awareness and preventative measures.