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Dhrol, a town nestled in the Jamnagar district of Gujarat, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Saurashtra peninsula. Located at approximately 22.57°N, 70.42°E, its terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Gujarat plains, with a gentle rise towards the west. The town sits relatively close to the Arabian Sea, approximately 20 kilometers away, influencing local humidity and wind patterns, though the distance mitigates direct coastal pollution impacts. Dhrol’s surrounding landscape is a blend of arid and semi-arid scrubland, interspersed with agricultural fields primarily cultivating cotton, groundnuts, and pulses. This agricultural activity, while vital to the regional economy, contributes to seasonal dust and particulate matter. To the east, Dhrol gradually transitions into a rural gradient, with scattered villages and farms dominating the view. Further west, the landscape becomes increasingly rugged, hinting at the geological formations of the peninsula. The proximity to Jamnagar, a significant industrial hub known for its petrochemical and refining industries, is a crucial factor impacting Dhrol’s air quality. Industrial emissions, transported by prevailing winds, can significantly degrade local air quality, particularly during periods of low wind speed. The relatively flat topography limits atmospheric dispersion, trapping pollutants and exacerbating their impact. The town’s urban character is that of a developing market town, with a growing population and increasing vehicular traffic, further contributing to localized pollution sources. The overall regional position places Dhrol in a zone susceptible to both regional and local pollution sources, demanding careful monitoring and mitigation strategies.

Dhrol’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by Gujarat’s climate. The pre-monsoon season (March-May) typically witnesses the poorest air quality. High temperatures and minimal rainfall create stable atmospheric conditions, often leading to temperature inversions where cooler air is trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, preventing vertical mixing and concentrating pollutants near the ground. Agricultural burning, a common practice for clearing fields before planting, significantly elevates particulate matter levels during this period. The monsoon season (June-September) brings a welcome respite, with frequent rainfall washing away pollutants and strong winds dispersing them. Humidity increases, which can affect respiratory comfort for some individuals. Post-monsoon (October-November) sees a gradual return to drier conditions, and a resurgence of dust and agricultural burning, though generally less intense than in the pre-monsoon. Winter (December-February) is generally the most favourable period for air quality, with cooler temperatures and occasional wind gusts aiding dispersion. However, fog, common during these months, can trap pollutants close to the ground, creating localized pockets of poor air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, limiting outdoor exertion and wearing appropriate masks. During foggy winter mornings, similar precautions are advised. The agricultural cycle dictates much of the pollution pattern, making awareness of burning practices crucial for public health. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers can also provide relief during periods of elevated pollution.