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Kalghatgi, a small city nestled in the Dharwad district of Karnataka, India, occupies a unique geographic position within the state’s undulating terrain. Located at coordinates 15.1832°N, 74.9710°E, the city sits at an elevation of approximately 620 meters (2,034 feet) above sea level, contributing to a relatively moderate climate. The surrounding landscape is characterised by rolling hills and agricultural lands, primarily dedicated to sugarcane, cotton, and maize cultivation. This agricultural dominance significantly influences local air quality, with seasonal burning of crop residue being a key contributor to particulate matter. Kalghatgi isn’t directly adjacent to major industrial belts, but its proximity to Hubballi-Dharwad, a growing industrial hub, means it experiences some degree of regional pollution transport. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; the city centre is densely populated, while the periphery quickly transitions into farmland. The lack of significant natural barriers to air flow means pollutants can accumulate during periods of low wind speed and temperature inversions, particularly during the winter months. The terrain funnels winds from the Western Ghats, but these winds aren’t always sufficient to fully disperse pollutants. The Malaprabha River flows nearby, but its influence on local air quality is limited, primarily affecting humidity levels.

Kalghatgi experiences a distinct wet and dry season pattern, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, from November to May, sees consistently poorer air quality. January and February are particularly challenging, with cooler temperatures leading to temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground. Low wind speeds during these months exacerbate the situation, allowing agricultural and domestic biomass burning to significantly degrade air quality. The pre-monsoon months of April and May bring increased dust and localised fires, further worsening conditions. The arrival of the monsoon in June offers a temporary respite. Heavy rainfall effectively washes away particulate matter, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, increased cloud cover can also contribute to localised pollution build-up. Post-monsoon, from September to November, sees a gradual deterioration as agricultural activities resume, including crop residue burning. October is often a transitional month with fluctuating air quality. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season, especially January-February and April-May. Wearing masks and using air purifiers indoors are recommended. Monitoring local conditions is crucial, as short-term spikes can occur due to unforeseen events like accidental fires.