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Pehowa, a town in the Kurukshetra district of Haryana, India, occupies a relatively flat, alluvial plain characteristic of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. Situated at coordinates 29.9800°N, 76.5800°E, its elevation is modest, contributing to limited natural air dispersion. The town’s geography is heavily influenced by its proximity to the ancient Saraswati river channel, though the river itself is now largely subsurface. This historical waterway has left a rich agricultural landscape surrounding Pehowa, dominated by wheat, rice, and sugarcane cultivation. The surrounding terrain is predominantly farmland, transitioning to more densely populated urban centres like Kurukshetra to the south and Kaithal to the north. Pehowa’s location isn’t directly within a major industrial belt, but it experiences regional pollution drift from industrial areas further afield, particularly those around Ambala and Panipat. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; the town itself is a relatively small settlement embedded within a vast agricultural matrix. This proximity to agricultural practices introduces seasonal burning of crop residue, a significant contributor to localised air pollution. The lack of significant topographical features hinders the flushing out of pollutants, exacerbating air quality issues, especially during calmer weather conditions. The flat terrain and limited wind corridors mean pollutants tend to accumulate, impacting the local atmosphere.

Pehowa’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern. The post-monsoon period, from October to November, sees a significant deterioration due to the widespread burning of paddy straw after the harvest. This practice releases substantial particulate matter, creating hazy conditions and respiratory irritation. Winter, from December to February, brings cooler temperatures and frequent temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground and worsening air quality. Fog further reduces visibility and exacerbates the impact of emissions. March and April offer a brief respite as winds pick up, dispersing pollutants, but dust storms can temporarily elevate particulate matter levels. The monsoon season, arriving in July and lasting through September, generally provides the cleanest air. Rainfall effectively washes away pollutants, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, increased cloud cover can also lead to stagnant air. May and June are hot and dry, with potential for dust and localised emissions from transport and small-scale industries. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should avoid prolonged outdoor activity during October-November and December-February. Monitoring local conditions and limiting strenuous exercise on poor air quality days is crucial for maintaining health.