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Surajpura, a small town in the state of Bihar, India, sits at coordinates 25.2576°N, 86.2283°E. Its location within the Indo-Gangetic Plain profoundly shapes its environment and, consequently, its air quality. The terrain is largely flat alluvial land, formed by the deposition of sediments from the Ganges and its tributaries. This flatness hinders natural dispersion of pollutants. Surajpura is situated approximately 25km north of Gaya, a larger urban centre, and benefits from agricultural land surrounding it, primarily rice and wheat cultivation. However, this agricultural activity contributes to seasonal biomass burning, a significant source of particulate matter. The town’s elevation is relatively low, around 115 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. While not directly adjacent to a major river, the proximity to smaller tributaries of the Ganges means humidity levels are often high, influencing pollutant chemistry. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; Surajpura is a relatively small settlement surrounded by predominantly rural agricultural areas. Increasing brick kilns in the surrounding districts, coupled with vehicular emissions from the Gaya-Dobhi road, are emerging as key pollution sources. The lack of substantial green cover within the town itself further limits natural air purification.

Surajpura experiences a distinct seasonal air quality pattern dictated by the monsoon and post-monsoon periods. October to March represents the drier months, and typically sees the poorest air quality. Cooler temperatures during this time lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants emitted from household cooking (biomass fuels), vehicular traffic, and local brick kilns. Fog formation in December and January further reduces visibility and exacerbates particulate matter concentrations. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings temporary relief. Heavy rainfall effectively washes away pollutants, and increased humidity causes particles to settle. However, even during the monsoon, localised pollution from construction and traffic persists. Post-monsoon, October and November are particularly problematic as farmers begin burning crop residue, adding significantly to particulate matter levels. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season, especially November to February. Avoiding peak traffic hours and using masks when outdoors are recommended. The monsoon months offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activity, though vigilance regarding waterborne diseases is still necessary.