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Gondal, a historic city in Gujarat, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Kathiawar peninsula. Located at approximately 21.9580° N, 70.7950° E, the city sits on a relatively flat terrain, characteristic of the Gujarat plains, with an average elevation of around 118 meters (387 feet). This low elevation, combined with its inland location, contributes to specific air quality challenges. Gondal is surrounded by a predominantly agricultural landscape, with extensive cotton and groundnut farms dominating the surrounding rural areas. This agricultural activity, while vital to the regional economy, introduces sources of particulate matter, particularly during harvest seasons when burning of crop residue is practiced. To the east, the landscape gradually rises, offering some potential for wind dispersion, though this is often limited by prevailing weather patterns. The city’s proximity to the Gulf of Khambhat, though not directly coastal, influences regional humidity and can impact the behaviour of pollutants. Gondal’s urban character is a blend of traditional architecture and modern development, with a relatively compact core surrounded by expanding residential areas. The city’s location within a broader industrial belt of Gujarat, though not directly adjacent to major industrial hubs, means it is susceptible to pollutants transported from further afield. The urban-rural gradient around Gondal is relatively sharp, with agricultural land quickly transitioning to urban development, creating a complex interplay of land use and pollution sources. The flat terrain and limited natural barriers exacerbate the potential for pollutant accumulation, particularly during periods of stagnant air.

Gondal’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by regional meteorology and agricultural practices. The dry, winter months (November to February) typically see the poorest air quality. Temperature inversions, common during this period, trap pollutants close to the ground, leading to increased concentrations. Agricultural burning, a widespread practice following the monsoon harvest, significantly contributes to particulate matter pollution during these months. The prevailing north-easterly winds, often light and variable, offer limited dispersion. Fog, frequent in winter, further reduces visibility and exacerbates the problem by trapping pollutants. The monsoon season (June to September) brings relief, with rainfall washing away pollutants and strong winds dispersing them. However, even during the monsoon, localized pollution from construction and vehicular emissions persists. The transitional periods of spring (March-May) and autumn (October) see fluctuating air quality, influenced by changing wind patterns and the gradual shift in agricultural activities. Summers (April-May) are generally drier, with higher temperatures, but wind speeds tend to increase, aiding in some dispersion. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the winter months, limiting outdoor activity during peak pollution periods. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable. Awareness campaigns promoting cleaner agricultural practices and reduced vehicular emissions are crucial for mitigating the seasonal air quality fluctuations in Gondal.