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Murliganj, nestled in the fertile plains of Bihar, India, occupies a geographically strategic position within the broader Ganga River basin. Located at approximately 25.9000° N, 86.9800° E, the town sits on relatively flat terrain, characteristic of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. Its elevation is low, contributing to atmospheric stability and potential for pollutant accumulation. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive rice paddies and maize fields dominating the rural areas. This agricultural activity, while vital for the regional economy, contributes to seasonal particulate matter pollution through crop burning practices, particularly during post-harvest periods. Murliganj’s proximity to the Gandak River, a major tributary of the Ganges, influences local humidity and temperature patterns, which in turn affect pollutant dispersion. The urban–rural gradient transitions rapidly, with the town acting as a commercial and transport hub for the surrounding agricultural communities. While not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, Murliganj serves as a logistical point for goods moving through Bihar, leading to vehicular emissions. The lack of significant topographic features—hills or valleys—limits natural ventilation, exacerbating the potential for stagnant air and localized pollution hotspots. The flat, expansive nature of the plain allows for pollutants to spread widely, impacting air quality across a considerable area. The region's climate, characterized by hot summers and a distinct monsoon season, further complicates the atmospheric dynamics influencing air quality.

Murliganj’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by regional weather patterns and agricultural practices. The pre-monsoon season (March-May) typically witnesses the poorest air quality. High temperatures and minimal rainfall create stable atmospheric conditions, often leading to temperature inversions where cooler air is trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, preventing pollutants from dispersing. This period coincides with the post-harvest season, and widespread crop residue burning significantly elevates particulate matter concentrations. The monsoon season (June-September) brings relief, with frequent rainfall washing away pollutants and strong winds dispersing them. Humidity increases, which can also affect the chemical composition of pollutants. The post-monsoon season (October-November) sees a return to drier conditions and a gradual increase in temperature, again creating conditions conducive to pollutant accumulation, though generally less severe than the pre-monsoon period. Winter months (December-February) are characterized by cooler temperatures and frequent fog, which traps pollutants near the ground, reducing visibility and impacting respiratory health. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and winter months, limiting outdoor activity during peak pollution periods. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable. The agricultural cycle dictates much of the pollution burden, making sustainable agricultural practices and alternative residue management techniques crucial for long-term air quality improvement.