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Mukher, a small city nestled within the state of Maharashtra, India, at coordinates 18.7008°N, 77.3628°E, presents a unique geographic context influencing its air quality. Situated in the western Deccan Plateau, Mukher’s terrain is characterised by gently undulating plains, typical of the region. The city’s elevation, while not dramatically high, contributes to localised weather patterns. Mukher isn’t directly on the coast, but benefits from the moderating influence of the Arabian Sea, approximately 150km west, which impacts humidity and wind direction. Surrounding Mukher is a predominantly agricultural landscape, with significant sugarcane and soybean cultivation. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, introduces particulate matter from harvesting and potential burning of crop residue. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; Mukher itself is a concentrated settlement, quickly transitioning to farmland. While not a major industrial hub, the presence of small-scale brick kilns and stone crushing units in the surrounding areas contributes to localised dust pollution. The city’s position within a broader regional network means it’s also susceptible to pollutants transported from larger industrial centres like Pune and Mumbai, impacting baseline air quality. The lack of substantial natural windbreaks exacerbates pollutant dispersal.

Mukher experiences a distinct tropical climate, broadly categorised into wet and dry seasons, profoundly impacting air quality. The monsoon season, typically from June to September, offers temporary respite. Heavy rainfall effectively washes away particulate matter, leading to cleaner air, though increased humidity can foster mould growth. October to February constitutes the dry season, marked by cooler temperatures and stagnant air. This period sees a significant deterioration in air quality as pollutants accumulate, exacerbated by temperature inversions trapping emissions near the ground. November and December are often the most polluted months. March to May brings the pre-monsoon season, characterised by rising temperatures and dust storms, further degrading air quality. Strong winds can temporarily disperse pollutants, but also stir up dust from agricultural lands. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry and pre-monsoon seasons. During the monsoon, while air is cleaner, precautions against waterborne diseases are crucial. The prevailing winds during the monsoon generally blow from the west, bringing cleaner air from the Arabian Sea, while dry season winds are more variable, often carrying pollutants from inland sources.