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Kakching, a small town in the Thoubal district of Manipur, India, occupies a relatively flat terrain within the Imphal Valley. Situated at coordinates 24.6085°N, 94.0029°E, and with a population of approximately 16,344, Kakching’s geography is profoundly shaped by its location within this fertile valley. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the rolling hills of the Eastern Himalayas, creating a bowl-like structure that can contribute to air stagnation. The Iril River flows nearby, influencing local humidity and potentially contributing to localised temperature inversions. While not heavily industrialised, Kakching is surrounded by agricultural land, primarily rice paddies, and smaller-scale brick kilns. These agricultural practices, alongside biomass burning for cooking and heating, are significant local emission sources. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; the town itself is compact, quickly transitioning to rural farmland. This proximity to agricultural activities means that seasonal burning of crop residue directly impacts air quality. The valley’s limited atmospheric circulation, coupled with the terrain, means pollutants can accumulate, particularly during calmer weather conditions. The town’s position within the valley also means it’s susceptible to regional air mass movements, potentially bringing in pollutants from surrounding areas, including Imphal.

Kakching experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, roughly November to April, sees consistently poorer air quality. Lower humidity and stable atmospheric conditions during these months trap pollutants emitted from household cooking, brick kilns, and agricultural practices. January and February are typically the worst months, with reduced wind speeds exacerbating the issue. The monsoon season, from May to October, brings significant relief. Heavy rainfall effectively washes away particulate matter, and increased wind speeds disperse pollutants. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of mould and allergens, impacting respiratory health. August and September, while generally cleaner, can experience localised flooding which can stir up sediment and contribute to air contamination. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly in January and February. During the monsoon, while air is cleaner, precautions should be taken regarding mould and waterborne allergens. The transition periods, April/May and October/November, often see fluctuating conditions and require increased vigilance.