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Rasulpur Dhuria, nestled within the plains of Bihar, India, at coordinates 25.5693°N, 87.0375°E, presents a unique geographic context influencing its air quality. The city’s terrain is largely flat, characteristic of the Indo-Gangetic Plain, with an elevation that contributes to potential temperature inversions. Situated within a predominantly agricultural zone, the surrounding landscape is dominated by rice paddies and wheat fields, typical of the region. The proximity to the Gandak River, a major tributary of the Ganges, introduces humidity and can influence local wind patterns. While not directly within a major industrial belt, the increasing rural-to-urban migration and associated small-scale brick kilns and informal industries contribute to localised pollution sources. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with surrounding villages relying heavily on biomass burning for cooking and heating. This pattern, combined with agricultural practices like stubble burning post-harvest, significantly impacts air quality. Dust from unpaved roads and construction activities further exacerbates particulate matter concentrations. The city’s location within the Indo-Gangetic Plain, a known hotspot for air pollution, means it’s susceptible to long-range transport of pollutants from neighbouring regions. Understanding these geographical factors is crucial for effective air quality management in Rasulpur Dhuria.

Air quality in Rasulpur Dhuria follows a distinct seasonal pattern. The post-monsoon period, from October to November, witnesses a significant deterioration in air quality due to stubble burning in surrounding agricultural lands, coupled with cooler temperatures and stagnant air. This period is generally the most challenging for respiratory health. December and January bring cooler, drier conditions, often with temperature inversions trapping pollutants near the ground, leading to consistently poor air quality. February and March see a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and wind speeds increase, dispersing pollutants. The pre-monsoon months of April and May are characterised by dust storms and increased temperatures, elevating particulate matter levels. However, these winds also offer some relief from stagnant pollution. The monsoon season, from June to September, typically brings the cleanest air, as rainfall washes away pollutants and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, increased cloud cover can also contribute to temperature inversions. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during October-November and December-February. Monitoring local weather patterns and avoiding peak pollution times is advisable.