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Tankāra, a small town nestled in the Surendranagar district of Gujarat, India (22.6560° N, 70.7480° E), occupies a geographically significant position within the broader Thar Desert ecosystem. Its location, approximately 180 kilometers southeast of Ahmedabad, places it within a transitional zone between the arid desert plains and the more fertile regions of Gujarat. The terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the alluvial plains formed by the Bhogavo River, which flows nearby, providing a crucial water source for agriculture and the local population. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – primarily cotton, groundnut, and pulses – interspersed with scrubland and pockets of desert vegetation. This agricultural intensity, while vital for the regional economy, contributes to localized air pollution through dust and agricultural burning practices. Tankāra’s relatively low elevation (around 150 meters above sea level) limits vertical dispersion of pollutants, particularly during periods of atmospheric stability. The urban–rural gradient is gradual, with small villages and agricultural holdings extending outwards from the town’s core. The proximity to industrial belts in Ahmedabad and Surendranagar, though distant, can influence regional air quality through long-range transport of pollutants. The prevailing winds, often originating from the west, can carry particulate matter and gaseous pollutants into the Tankāra area. The lack of significant topographic barriers further exacerbates this issue, allowing pollutants to spread relatively unimpeded across the landscape. The town’s compact size and limited green spaces also contribute to a higher concentration of pollutants within the urban area itself.

Tankāra’s air quality exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the interplay of meteorological factors and local activities. The pre-monsoon season (March-May) typically witnesses the poorest air quality. High temperatures and minimal rainfall create dry, stable atmospheric conditions, frequently leading to temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground. Agricultural burning, a common practice for clearing fields after harvest, significantly elevates particulate matter concentrations during this period. The summer months (April-June) are characterized by intense heat and stagnant air, further compounding the problem. The monsoon season (July-September) brings a welcome respite, with rainfall washing away pollutants and strong winds dispersing them. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased humidity and the formation of ground-level ozone, though this is generally less impactful than particulate pollution. The post-monsoon season (October-November) sees a gradual return to drier conditions, with a resurgence of agricultural burning as farmers prepare for the winter crop. December and January are generally the most favourable months for outdoor activity, with cooler temperatures and more frequent wind dispersal. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, limiting outdoor exposure and wearing appropriate masks. The dry winter months, while offering improved air quality, can still experience periods of fog, which traps pollutants and reduces visibility. Maintaining awareness of local conditions and adhering to public health advisories is crucial for minimizing exposure and protecting respiratory health.