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Kewatgāwān, a small town in the Gaya district of Bihar, India, sits at approximately 25.8012°N latitude and 86.3229°E longitude. The town’s geography is characteristic of the Indo-Gangetic Plain, a flat, fertile expanse formed by alluvial deposits from the Ganges and its tributaries. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, dominated by rice paddies and small-scale farming. Kewatgāwān’s elevation is relatively low, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. The Phalgu River, a sacred tributary of the Ganges, flows nearby, but its influence on local air quality is more related to seasonal humidity and potential for localised dust suspension than direct pollutant transport. The urban-rural gradient is sharp; Kewatgāwān is a relatively small settlement embedded within a largely rural agricultural matrix. While not a major industrial hub itself, its proximity to Gaya, a regional centre with some industrial activity, means it can experience pollutant influx. The lack of significant natural barriers like hills or forests exacerbates the potential for stagnant air conditions, particularly during the winter months. This flat terrain and agricultural setting contribute to a unique set of air quality challenges, including dust from farming and potential for biomass burning emissions.

Kewatgāwān’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern. The post-monsoon period (October-November) often sees a peak in pollution, driven by stagnant air, lower temperatures, and the widespread practice of agricultural residue burning after the harvest. This combines with Diwali celebrations, adding to particulate matter concentrations. Winter (December-February) brings cool, dry conditions and frequent temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. Fog further reduces visibility and exacerbates respiratory issues. The pre-monsoon months (March-May) witness rising temperatures and dust storms, increasing particulate matter levels. The monsoon season (June-September) generally offers the cleanest air, as rainfall washes away pollutants and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, increased cloud cover can also lead to reduced sunlight and potential for photochemical smog formation. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should avoid strenuous outdoor activity during October-November and December-February. March-May requires caution due to dust. The monsoon offers the most favourable conditions for outdoor activity, but vigilance regarding waterborne diseases is still necessary.