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Chākūr, nestled in the Osmanabad district of Maharashtra, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Deccan Plateau. Located at approximately 18.5131° N latitude and 76.8753° E longitude, the town’s terrain is predominantly undulating, characteristic of the plateau’s landscape. The elevation averages around 570 meters (1870 feet) above sea level, influencing local weather patterns and potentially trapping pollutants under certain atmospheric conditions. Chākūr’s surrounding landscape is a mix of semi-arid scrubland and agricultural fields, primarily cultivating rain-fed crops like jowar and groundnut. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to particulate matter pollution through seasonal burning of crop residue. The urban–rural gradient around Chākūr is relatively gradual, with smaller villages and agricultural holdings extending outwards. While not directly adjacent to major rivers, the town benefits from groundwater resources, crucial for irrigation and domestic use. The region’s proximity to the Solapur industrial belt, approximately 120 kilometers to the northeast, introduces a potential source of industrial emissions that can be transported by prevailing winds. The Deccan Plateau’s geological composition, largely basaltic rock, can also influence dust generation, particularly during drier periods. The relatively flat topography surrounding Chākūr, combined with the plateau’s inherent climate, can sometimes lead to stagnant air masses, exacerbating the impact of local pollution sources.

Chākūr’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by the region’s tropical climate and monsoon patterns. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, is often characterized by elevated particulate matter concentrations. This is due to a combination of factors: increased dust generation from agricultural activities, higher temperatures leading to increased ozone formation, and a lack of rainfall to wash pollutants from the atmosphere. Temperature inversions, common during these months, trap pollutants near the ground, further worsening air quality. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief as heavy rainfall effectively clears the atmosphere, significantly reducing pollution levels. However, the onset of the monsoon can initially be accompanied by increased humidity and localized flooding, which can temporarily impact air quality. The post-monsoon period (October-November) sees a gradual return to drier conditions, with a potential for increased agricultural burning as farmers prepare fields for the next planting season. Winter months (December-February) are generally cooler, with occasional fog, which can trap pollutants and reduce visibility. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season and be mindful of potential impacts from agricultural burning in the post-monsoon period. Outdoor activities are generally more favourable during the monsoon and winter months, although fog can still pose a visibility hazard. Maintaining awareness of local weather conditions and minimizing exposure to potential pollution sources is crucial for protecting respiratory health.