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Mānjha, a small town in the Muzaffarpur district of Bihar, India, sits at coordinates 26.4061°N, 84.5002°E. The landscape is characteristic of the Indo-Gangetic Plain – a flat, fertile alluvial plain formed by the sediment deposition of the Ganges and its tributaries. Mānjha’s elevation is relatively low, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. The Burhi Gandak river flows nearby, influencing local humidity and potentially trapping pollutants during temperature inversions. Surrounding the town are intensely cultivated agricultural lands, primarily rice and wheat fields, with seasonal burning of crop residue being a significant factor. Unlike larger metropolitan areas, Mānjha’s industrial presence is limited, but small-scale brick kilns and local industries contribute to particulate matter emissions. The urban-rural gradient is sharp; the town is embedded within a predominantly rural agricultural matrix. This proximity means that air quality is heavily influenced by regional agricultural practices and weather patterns. Dust from unpaved roads and construction activities within the town itself also adds to the particulate load. The flat terrain restricts natural ventilation, exacerbating pollution build-up, particularly during calmer weather conditions. The town’s location within the densely populated Bihar plain means it’s susceptible to regional pollution transport.

Mānjha experiences a distinct seasonal air quality pattern. The post-monsoon period, from October to November, is often the most polluted. The receding monsoon leaves behind stagnant air, coupled with increased burning of agricultural residue after the harvest. Temperature inversions are common during these cooler months, trapping pollutants near the ground. Winter, from December to February, sees consistently poor air quality due to continued agricultural burning, domestic fuel combustion for heating, and limited wind speeds. Fog further exacerbates the situation, reducing visibility and trapping pollutants. March and April bring a slight improvement as temperatures rise and winds pick up, but dust storms are frequent. The pre-monsoon season, May to June, is hot and dry, with increased dust levels. The monsoon season, from July to September, generally offers the cleanest air. Heavy rainfall washes away pollutants, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, localised flooding can create stagnant water bodies that become breeding grounds for vectors and contribute to dampness-related respiratory issues. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during October-February and take precautions during dust storm events. Monitoring local weather forecasts is crucial for planning outdoor activities.