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Mānullahpatti, nestled in the fertile plains of Bihar, India (26.0619° N, 87.1751° E), occupies a geographically significant position within the Gangetic Basin. The town’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Indo-Gangetic Plain, with elevations rarely exceeding 50 meters above sea level. This low-lying topography contributes to a tendency for pollutants to accumulate, particularly during periods of atmospheric stability. Mānullahpatti is surrounded by a mosaic of agricultural land, primarily dedicated to rice and maize cultivation, interspersed with smaller villages and scattered groves. The region’s proximity to the Ganges River, though not directly adjacent, influences the broader meteorological patterns, contributing to humidity and occasional riverine influences on air quality. The urban–rural gradient around Mānullahpatti is gradual; the town itself represents a small, localized concentration of population and activity, with agricultural practices dominating the surrounding landscape. While not situated within a major industrial belt, the town’s reliance on traditional biomass fuels for cooking and heating, coupled with agricultural burning during harvest seasons, significantly impacts local air quality. The flat, expansive landscape offers limited natural ventilation, further exacerbating the potential for pollutant build-up. The surrounding landscape, largely agrarian, means that seasonal agricultural practices are a key driver of local air quality fluctuations, more so than distant industrial sources. The lack of significant topographical features means that wind patterns are often gentle and variable, impacting dispersion.

Mānullahpatti’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The pre-monsoon months (March-May) typically see the poorest air quality, characterized by stagnant conditions and increased agricultural burning. Farmers clearing crop residue after the harvest season release substantial amounts of particulate matter into the atmosphere, creating a haze that blankets the region. Temperature inversions, common during this period, trap pollutants near the ground, further worsening conditions. The monsoon season (June-September) brings relief, with frequent rainfall washing away pollutants and strong winds dispersing them. However, periods of heavy rainfall can also lead to increased humidity and the release of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs), which can contribute to ozone formation under certain conditions. The post-monsoon season (October-November) mirrors the pre-monsoon period, with agricultural burning resuming and atmospheric stability returning. Winter months (December-February) are often characterized by fog, which traps pollutants and reduces visibility. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre- and post-monsoon seasons, limiting outdoor activity during peak pollution periods. The monsoon offers a window of improved air quality, but vigilance is still advised during periods of heavy rainfall and humidity. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and avoiding the use of biomass fuels indoors is crucial throughout the year, particularly during the colder months when homes are sealed to conserve heat.