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Mānāvadar, a small city in Gujarat, India, sits at coordinates 21.5000°N, 70.1300°E, within the Saurashtra peninsula. The terrain is largely flat, characteristic of the coastal plains of Gujarat, with a gentle slope towards the Gulf of Khambhat, approximately 50km to the east. The city’s elevation is relatively low, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. Surrounding Mānāvadar is a mix of agricultural land, primarily cotton and groundnut cultivation, and increasingly, small-scale industrial activity related to textile processing and agricultural produce. This blend of land use is a key factor influencing local air quality. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp; the city itself is compact with a population of around 30,850, quickly transitioning to agricultural fields. The proximity to the coast introduces sea breezes, which can offer temporary relief from stagnant air, but also carry saline particles. However, these breezes are often insufficient to fully clear pollutants generated from local sources. Dust from agricultural practices and unpaved roads is a persistent issue, exacerbated by the arid climate. The regional climate is semi-arid, with hot, dry summers and mild winters, impacting pollutant behaviour. The lack of significant natural barriers to air flow means Mānāvadar is susceptible to regional pollution transport.

Mānāvadar experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing air quality. The post-monsoon period (October-November) often sees a temporary improvement as rainfall washes away accumulated particulate matter. However, this is short-lived. The dry season (December-May) brings consistently poorer air quality. Winter months (December-February) are characterised by temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground, and calm winds, leading to stagnation. Dust from agricultural activities and construction contributes significantly. March-May are particularly challenging, with rising temperatures and increased industrial activity. The onset of the monsoon (June-September) provides substantial relief, with heavy rainfall effectively cleansing the atmosphere. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of secondary pollutants. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during the dry season, particularly March-May. During the monsoon, while air is cleaner, the risk of waterborne diseases increases, requiring caution. Avoiding strenuous activity during peak heat hours in the dry season is also advisable. Fog, though infrequent, can exacerbate pollution episodes in winter by further limiting dispersion.