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Koiri Bigha, nestled in the plains of Bihar, India (25.2167° N, 85.0667° E), occupies a geographically significant position within the fertile Gangetic plains. The town’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Indo-Gangetic alluvial plain, resulting in minimal elevation changes – a factor that can exacerbate air quality issues by limiting natural dispersion of pollutants. Situated approximately 120 kilometers southwest of Patna, the state capital, Koiri Bigha lies within a region heavily influenced by agricultural practices. The surrounding landscape is dominated by expansive farmlands, primarily dedicated to rice and maize cultivation, contributing to seasonal biomass burning and associated particulate matter. The proximity to the Ganges River, though providing a vital water source, also influences local weather patterns, occasionally leading to humidity and fog, which can trap pollutants close to the ground. While Koiri Bigha itself is a relatively small urban centre, it’s part of a broader urban-rural gradient, experiencing increasing pressure from nearby industrial zones and transportation corridors. The lack of significant topographical barriers means that pollutants generated from these sources can readily impact the town’s air quality. The region’s climate, characterized by hot summers and a distinct monsoon season, further complicates the atmospheric dynamics, influencing both the sources and the dispersion of air pollutants. The flat terrain and agricultural intensity combine to create a unique environmental context where air quality is particularly vulnerable to human activities.

Koiri Bigha’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s monsoonal climate. The pre-monsoon season (March-May) typically witnesses the poorest air quality, driven by a combination of factors. Agricultural residue burning, a common practice after the harvest of winter crops, releases significant quantities of particulate matter and other pollutants into the atmosphere. High temperatures and low wind speeds during this period contribute to stagnant air conditions, hindering pollutant dispersal and leading to their accumulation. The monsoon season (June-September) brings relief, as increased rainfall and stronger winds naturally cleanse the air. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to waterlogging and the release of methane, a greenhouse gas. Post-monsoon (October-November) sees a resurgence of agricultural burning, mirroring the pre-monsoon conditions, though often less intense. Winter months (December-February) are characterized by cooler temperatures and frequent fog, particularly in the mornings. This fog traps pollutants near the ground, creating localized episodes of poor air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution periods. During the winter months, avoiding prolonged exposure to fog-bound areas is advisable. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers can also provide some protection. The interplay of agricultural practices, meteorological conditions, and the town’s geographic location creates a complex air quality profile that demands careful monitoring and mitigation strategies.