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Mirdaul, a small town in the Muzaffarpur district of Bihar, India, occupies a relatively flat expanse of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. Situated at coordinates 26.2363°N, 87.0971°E, its elevation is characteristically low for the region, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. The surrounding landscape is dominated by intensely cultivated agricultural land, primarily rice paddies and wheat fields, typical of the fertile Bihar plains. The Burhi Gandak river flows nearby, influencing local humidity and potentially contributing to localised fog formation during cooler months. Mirdaul isn’t a major industrial hub, but regional brick kilns and small-scale agricultural processing contribute to particulate matter emissions. The urban-rural gradient is sharp; Mirdaul itself is a relatively small settlement, quickly transitioning to rural farmland. This proximity to agricultural practices means seasonal burning of crop residue after harvest is a significant factor. The town’s location within the Indo-Gangetic Plain, a basin prone to stagnant air masses, exacerbates pollution issues, trapping pollutants and hindering their dispersal. Dust from agricultural activities and unpaved roads further degrades air quality, particularly during the dry season. The lack of significant topographical features prevents natural ventilation, making Mirdaul vulnerable to pollution build-up.

Mirdaul’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern. The post-monsoon period, from October to November, typically sees the worst conditions. The cessation of monsoon rains removes the cleansing effect of precipitation, while stubble burning from the surrounding agricultural lands releases massive amounts of particulate matter. Shallow temperature inversions are common during these cooler months, trapping pollutants near the ground. December and January bring cooler temperatures and often dense fog, further reducing visibility and exacerbating particulate matter concentrations. The summer months, from April to June, are generally better, with higher temperatures and winds aiding in dispersion, though dust from construction and unpaved roads remains a concern. The monsoon season, from July to September, offers a temporary respite, as rainfall washes away pollutants and increases humidity. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of secondary pollutants. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should avoid prolonged outdoor activity during October-November and December-January. March-April can also see elevated dust levels. Monitoring local weather patterns and avoiding peak pollution times is crucial for protecting respiratory health.