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Siddhapur, nestled in the Palanpur Taluka of Gujarat, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the broader landscape of northwestern India. Located at approximately 23.9167° N latitude and 72.3833° E longitude, the city sits on a relatively flat terrain, characteristic of the Gujarat plains. Its elevation is modest, contributing to a generally stable atmospheric layer, though this can be disrupted by seasonal weather patterns. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive fields of cotton, groundnut, and wheat dominating the rural areas extending outwards from Siddhapur. This agricultural activity, while vital to the regional economy, introduces potential sources of particulate matter, particularly during harvest seasons when burning of crop residue is practiced. To the east, the landscape gradually rises, hinting at the foothills of the Aravalli Range, though Siddhapur itself remains well within the plains. The city’s proximity to the Banas River, though not directly adjacent, influences local humidity and can impact the dispersion of pollutants, particularly during periods of low wind speed. The urban–rural gradient around Siddhapur is relatively sharp; the city transitions quickly from built-up areas to agricultural land, meaning that industrial emissions, if present, can impact air quality more directly than in cities with a more diffuse urban footprint. The regional position, within a densely populated state and a major agricultural belt, means Siddhapur’s air quality is susceptible to both local and regional pollution sources, influenced by prevailing wind patterns and broader meteorological conditions.

Siddhapur’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by Gujarat’s climate. The pre-monsoon season (March-May) typically witnesses the poorest air quality. Rising temperatures lead to increased stagnant air conditions, and the prevalence of temperature inversions traps pollutants close to the ground. Agricultural burning, a common practice to clear fields for the next planting season, significantly contributes to particulate matter pollution during this period. The monsoon season (June-September) brings a welcome respite. The southwest monsoon winds effectively flush out accumulated pollutants, leading to a marked improvement in air quality. Humidity increases, and rainfall helps to settle particulate matter. The post-monsoon season (October-November) sees a gradual return to less favourable conditions. While rainfall continues intermittently, the winds become calmer, and temperatures begin to drop, occasionally leading to fog, which further restricts pollutant dispersion. The winter months (December-February) are generally characterised by cooler temperatures and clearer skies, though periods of fog can still impact visibility and trap pollutants. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon season, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution periods. During the monsoon, outdoor activities are generally safer, but vigilance is still advised, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall or fog. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can be beneficial throughout the year, especially during periods of elevated pollution.