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Sher Chakla, nestled in the fertile plains of Bihar, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Gangetic Basin. Located at approximately 25.3848° N, 86.6952° E, the town’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Indo-Gangetic Plain, with an elevation of roughly 55 meters above sea level. This low-lying topography contributes to poor air circulation, particularly during periods of stagnant weather. The surrounding landscape is dominated by agricultural fields – primarily rice and wheat cultivation – which, while vital to the regional economy, can contribute to seasonal particulate matter pollution through crop residue burning. Sher Chakla’s proximity to the Ganges River, though providing a crucial water source, also influences local humidity and can exacerbate the effects of certain pollutants. The urban–rural gradient around Sher Chakla is gradual; the town itself is relatively small, but it serves as a local trading hub for surrounding villages, leading to increased vehicular traffic and associated emissions. Further afield, the industrial belt of Barauni, with its fertilizer and petrochemical plants, exerts an indirect influence on air quality, occasionally transporting pollutants via prevailing winds. The flat, expansive nature of the region, combined with limited natural barriers, allows for pollutants to spread widely, impacting air quality across a broad area. The lack of significant elevation changes hinders the natural dispersion of airborne contaminants, making Sher Chakla susceptible to localized pollution episodes.

Sher Chakla’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The dry season, typically spanning October to May, witnesses a significant deterioration in air quality. November and December are particularly challenging, coinciding with the post-harvest period when farmers often resort to crop residue burning to clear fields quickly. This practice releases substantial amounts of particulate matter, severely impacting visibility and respiratory health. Temperature inversions, common during these colder months, trap pollutants near the ground, further exacerbating the problem. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief as rainfall washes away pollutants and strong winds disperse them. However, even during the monsoon, humidity can trap certain gaseous pollutants. The transitional periods – March-May and September-November – are characterized by fluctuating conditions. March-May sees rising temperatures and decreasing rainfall, leading to a gradual increase in pollution levels. September-November, before the full onset of the monsoon, can experience periods of stagnant air and localized fog, which traps pollutants. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly avoiding outdoor activities during peak pollution episodes. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable. The monsoon months generally offer a window for improved outdoor air quality, but vigilance is still necessary, especially during periods of heavy rainfall or localized flooding which can release pollutants from stagnant water sources.