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Fatehābād, Bihar, occupies a geographically significant position within the fertile Gangetic plains of India. Located at approximately 26.0652° N, 84.9722° E, the city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Indo-Gangetic alluvial plain. The elevation is relatively low, contributing to a tendency for pollutants to accumulate, particularly during periods of atmospheric stability. Fatehābād sits within a region heavily influenced by the monsoon climate, with the Ganges River flowing not far to the south, impacting local humidity and wind patterns. The surrounding landscape is overwhelmingly agricultural, with vast stretches of farmland dedicated to crops like rice and wheat. This agricultural activity, while vital to the regional economy, contributes to air pollution through the burning of crop residue after harvest, a practice common in Bihar. The urban–rural gradient around Fatehābād is gradual, with smaller villages and agricultural fields transitioning directly into the city’s periphery. There are no major industrial belts immediately adjacent to Fatehābād, however, the city’s proximity to larger urban centers in Bihar means it can be affected by transboundary pollution. The flat topography and limited natural barriers exacerbate the impact of regional pollution sources, making Fatehābād susceptible to poor air quality episodes. The lack of significant elevation changes also limits natural dispersion of pollutants, further compounding the issue. The soil composition, rich in alluvial deposits, can also influence particulate matter behavior.

Fatehābād’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The pre-monsoon season (March-May) typically witnesses the worst air quality, driven by agricultural burning. Farmers clearing fields after the harvest season release significant quantities of smoke and particulate matter, creating a dense haze that blankets the region. Temperature inversions are also common during this period, trapping pollutants close to the ground. The monsoon season (June-September) brings relief as increased rainfall and stronger winds help to disperse pollutants, significantly improving air quality. However, humidity levels rise considerably. The post-monsoon season (October-November) sees a gradual return to poorer air quality as agricultural burning resumes, though often less intense than in the pre-monsoon period. Winter months (December-February) are characterized by colder temperatures and frequent fog, which further restricts atmospheric mixing and traps pollutants, leading to periods of stagnant air. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and winter months, limiting outdoor activity during peak pollution times. The monsoon offers a window of relatively cleaner air, but high humidity can still be a concern for some. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can be beneficial, particularly during periods of elevated pollution. Awareness campaigns promoting alternative agricultural practices, such as no-till farming, are crucial for long-term air quality improvement.