Mānegaon, nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, India (23.2062°N, 80.0123°E), is a small urban centre with a population of approximately 12,100. The town’s geography is characterised by the undulating plains of the Malwa Plateau, a region known for its black cotton soil. This relatively flat terrain, at an elevation of around 340 meters, doesn’t offer significant natural dispersion for pollutants. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive cultivation of cotton, wheat, and soybeans. While no major rivers directly traverse Mānegaon, it lies within the Narmada basin, benefitting from groundwater recharge, but also potentially experiencing localised waterlogging contributing to dust emissions. The urban-rural gradient is sharp; Mānegaon is a relatively isolated settlement, with smaller villages surrounding it. The nearest significant industrial activity is located further north, towards Indore, but localised brick kilns and small-scale agricultural processing contribute to particulate matter. The town’s position, away from major wind corridors, and the frequent occurrence of stagnant air masses during certain times of the year, exacerbate the potential for air pollution build-up. The lack of dense forest cover in the immediate vicinity further limits natural air purification processes. This combination of factors makes Mānegaon particularly vulnerable to localised pollution sources.

Mānegaon experiences a distinct seasonal air quality pattern dictated by the monsoon and post-monsoon periods. The monsoon season (June-September) generally brings temporary relief, as rainfall washes away particulate matter and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, this is often followed by a period of increased humidity and stagnant air in October-November, trapping pollutants. The winter months (December-February) are typically the worst for air quality. Lower temperatures lead to temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler, polluted air near the ground. This is compounded by increased use of biomass for heating and cooking. March-May sees a gradual increase in temperatures and wind speeds, offering some improvement, but also coincides with agricultural burning as farmers prepare fields for the next season, significantly elevating particulate matter. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during winter mornings and evenings, and during agricultural burning periods. The monsoon, while offering temporary respite, can also bring mould spores, impacting those with allergies. Avoiding strenuous activity during peak pollution times is crucial, and using N95 masks can provide additional protection.