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Nawalpur, a small town nestled in the Nawada district of Bihar, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Gangetic plains. Located at approximately 26.9366° N latitude and 84.2985° E longitude, the town’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Indo-Gangetic alluvial plain. The elevation is relatively low, contributing to a tendency for pollutants to accumulate, particularly during periods of atmospheric stability. Nawalpur’s surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – primarily rice and maize cultivation – interspersed with scattered villages and pockets of Sal forest further west. This agricultural activity, while vital to the regional economy, contributes to seasonal particulate matter pollution through biomass burning during harvest and residue management. The town sits within a gradual urban–rural gradient; while Nawalpur itself retains a largely rural character, it’s within reasonable proximity to larger urban centers like Nawada, which introduces a degree of industrial and vehicular influence. The absence of major rivers immediately adjacent to Nawalpur limits natural air cleansing mechanisms, unlike cities situated along the Ganges. The prevailing winds, generally from the east during the monsoon and shifting to the northwest during the dry season, play a crucial role in dispersing or trapping pollutants. The flat topography and limited natural barriers exacerbate the impact of regional pollution sources, making Nawalpur susceptible to transboundary air quality issues originating from industrial belts further north and west.

Nawalpur’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by regional meteorology and agricultural practices. The dry season, spanning roughly October to March, presents the most challenging period. Cold temperatures and frequent temperature inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, leading to increased concentrations of particulate matter. Agricultural residue burning, a common practice after the harvest season (October-November), significantly contributes to this pollution. Fog, prevalent during December and January, further restricts atmospheric mixing and exacerbates the problem. The monsoon season (June-September) brings relief, with increased rainfall and stronger winds dispersing pollutants. However, even during the monsoon, localized pollution from agricultural activities and occasional dust storms can impact air quality. The transitional periods – spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October) – are generally characterized by moderate air quality, though dust from nearby construction and agricultural activities can still be a factor. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of dense fog and agricultural burning. Limiting outdoor exertion and wearing appropriate masks are advisable. During the monsoon, while overall air quality improves, those with allergies should be mindful of pollen counts. The intensity of the monsoon and its impact on air quality can vary significantly from year to year, making it crucial to monitor local conditions.