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Rohār, a small city nestled within the plains of Bihar, India, occupies a geographically significant position at 25.9917°N, 86.2366°E. The terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Gangetic Plain, with a low elevation that contributes to limited natural air dispersion. The city’s location is deeply intertwined with the surrounding agricultural landscape, primarily rice and wheat cultivation, which, while vital for the local economy, introduces seasonal biomass burning contributing to particulate matter. The Phalgu River, a tributary of the Ganges, flows nearby, influencing local humidity and potentially trapping pollutants during temperature inversions. Rohār isn’t a major industrial hub itself, but its proximity to larger industrial areas in Bihar and potentially across the border in Uttar Pradesh means it can experience transboundary pollution. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city centre is densely populated, while the immediate surroundings are largely rural farmland. This creates a localized heat island effect, impacting wind patterns and pollutant concentration. Dust from unpaved roads and construction activities further degrades air quality, particularly during the drier months. The flat topography and limited wind corridors exacerbate these issues, making Rohār particularly vulnerable to air pollution build-up.

Rohār experiences a distinct seasonal air quality pattern dictated by the monsoon and post-monsoon periods. The summer months (April-June) bring high temperatures and stagnant air, exacerbating dust pollution from construction and roads, and increasing ground-level ozone formation. This is a period to limit strenuous outdoor activity. The arrival of the monsoon (July-September) offers temporary relief, as rainfall washes away pollutants and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, increased cloud cover can also lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. Post-monsoon (October-November) is often the worst period for air quality, coinciding with the burning of agricultural residue after the harvest, leading to significant spikes in particulate matter. This is a critical time for those with respiratory conditions. Winter (December-February) sees cooler temperatures and frequent fog, which traps pollutants and reduces visibility. While wind speeds are generally low, occasional westerly winds can bring cleaner air, but these are infrequent. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions – should take extra precautions during the post-monsoon and winter months, limiting outdoor exposure and using air purifiers when possible.