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Kareli, a municipality in the Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh, India, occupies a relatively flat terrain within the broader Malwa Plateau region. Situated at coordinates 22.9153°N, 79.0638°E, the town’s geography is characterised by black soil, typical of the Deccan Trap formations, supporting primarily agricultural land use. The surrounding landscape is dominated by agricultural fields, interspersed with sparse vegetation. The Sindh River flows nearby, influencing local humidity and potentially contributing to localised temperature inversions, which can trap pollutants. Kareli isn’t directly within a major industrial belt, but regional industrial activity in nearby cities like Gwalior and Jhansi contributes to background pollution levels. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; Kareli itself is a relatively small urban centre surrounded by extensive rural agricultural areas. This proximity to agricultural practices introduces seasonal biomass burning, a significant source of particulate matter. The town’s elevation, around 480 meters above sea level, doesn’t significantly mitigate pollution dispersion, and the lack of substantial topographical features hinders natural ventilation. Dust from unpaved roads and construction activities further compounds the air quality challenges, particularly during the drier months. The town’s location within a predominantly agricultural region means that pesticide and fertilizer use also contribute to atmospheric composition, though less directly to particulate pollution.

Kareli experiences a distinct seasonal air quality pattern dictated by the monsoon and post-monsoon periods. The monsoon season, typically from July to September, offers a temporary respite from pollution as rainfall washes away particulate matter and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, this is followed by a deterioration in air quality during October and November due to post-monsoon stubble burning from agricultural harvests, creating significant smoke and particulate matter. Winter, from December to February, sees the worst air quality, characterised by temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground, combined with low wind speeds. This period is particularly hazardous for individuals with respiratory conditions. March and April bring increasing temperatures and wind speeds, offering some improvement, but dust storms are common. The pre-monsoon months of May and June are hot and dry, with increased dust levels and potential for localised fires. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular illnesses – should limit outdoor activity during the winter and post-monsoon seasons. Avoiding peak hours of traffic and using masks when outdoors during these periods is advisable. Monitoring local conditions and heeding health advisories is crucial for protecting respiratory health.