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Sārangpur, Bihar, situated at approximately 25.74° N, 85.70° E, occupies a geographically significant position within the fertile Gangetic plains of eastern India. The town’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Indo-Gangetic Plain, with an average elevation of around 58 meters (190 feet) above sea level. This low elevation contributes to a tendency for pollutants to accumulate, particularly during periods of stagnant air. Sārangpur lies within a predominantly rural landscape, transitioning gradually towards more densely populated areas as one approaches larger regional hubs. The surrounding area is dominated by agricultural land, primarily dedicated to rice and maize cultivation, which, while vital for the regional economy, can contribute to seasonal particulate matter pollution from crop residue burning. While Sārangpur itself lacks major industrial zones, its proximity to industrial belts in nearby districts, particularly those involved in manufacturing and processing, introduces a regional pollution influence. The town’s location along transportation routes also means it experiences emissions from vehicular traffic. The gradual urban–rural gradient around Sārangpur means that agricultural practices and rural activities directly impact the local air quality, with the potential for increased dust and smoke during harvest seasons. The absence of significant natural barriers, such as hills or mountains, further limits the dispersion of pollutants, making the town susceptible to localized air quality challenges. The nearby Ghaghara River, while providing a water source, does not significantly influence regional air circulation patterns.

Sārangpur’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The monsoon season, typically spanning from June to September, brings relief from accumulated pollutants due to frequent rainfall and increased wind speeds, effectively flushing the atmosphere. However, the preceding pre-monsoon period (March-May) often witnesses a significant deterioration in air quality. High temperatures exacerbate the formation of ground-level ozone, while stagnant air and the build-up of pollutants from industrial and agricultural sources contribute to elevated particulate matter levels. Crop residue burning, a common practice after the harvest of rice and maize, intensifies this problem, releasing substantial amounts of smoke and particulate matter. The post-monsoon season (October-November) also presents challenges, with cooler temperatures and calmer winds leading to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. Fog, common during these months, further restricts dispersion. Winter (December-February) generally sees improved air quality compared to the pre-monsoon period, although cold temperatures and fog can still lead to localized pollution episodes. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution hours. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable. The monsoon months offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activities, although occasional heavy rainfall can still impact visibility and air quality.