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Kusāha, a small town in the Bihar plains of India, sits at coordinates 26.2077°N, 86.9587°E, with a population of approximately 14,530. The town’s geography is defined by the Indo-Gangetic Plain, a vast, fertile expanse formed by alluvial deposits from the Ganges and its tributaries. The terrain is remarkably flat, with a very gentle slope towards the south, influencing drainage patterns and contributing to localised waterlogging during the monsoon season. Kusāha is situated within a predominantly agricultural landscape, characterised by rice paddies and wheat fields, typical of the region. The surrounding districts are heavily reliant on agriculture, with limited industrial development directly within Kusāha itself, though regional industrial activity in nearby cities contributes to background pollution. The urban-rural gradient is sharp; Kusāha represents a rural service centre for surrounding villages. This proximity to agricultural land means seasonal burning of crop residue is a significant factor. The lack of significant elevation and limited natural windbreaks exacerbate the potential for pollutant concentration, particularly during periods of calm weather. The town’s location, while benefiting from fertile land, presents challenges for air quality due to the flat topography and agricultural practices.

Kusāha experiences a distinct seasonal air quality pattern dictated by the monsoon and post-monsoon periods. The summer months (April-June) bring consistently high temperatures and dry conditions, leading to dust resuspension from agricultural fields and unpaved roads, contributing to particulate matter pollution. Calm winds exacerbate this, trapping pollutants near ground level. The arrival of the monsoon (July-September) initially offers respite, with rainfall scavenging pollutants from the air. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of secondary pollutants. Post-monsoon (October-November) is often the worst period for air quality. Stubble burning from the harvested rice crop is widespread, creating intense localised smoke plumes. Shallow temperature inversions, common during cooler mornings, trap this smoke, leading to severely degraded air. Winter (December-February) sees cooler temperatures and often foggy conditions, further trapping pollutants. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during October-November and avoid peak pollution hours in the summer. The monsoon offers the most favourable conditions for outdoor activity, though vigilance regarding humidity-related issues is advised.