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Parādīp Garh, nestled on the eastern coast of Odisha, India, occupies a unique and strategically important geographic position. Located at the mouth of the Brahmani River, where it meets the Bay of Bengal, the city’s terrain is predominantly low-lying, characterized by alluvial plains and estuarine landscapes. Its coordinates (20.3160, 86.6100) place it within a deltaic region, resulting in a relatively flat topography with an average elevation of just a few meters above sea level. This low elevation makes the city particularly vulnerable to sea-level rise and coastal flooding, factors which can exacerbate air quality issues by mobilizing pollutants. The surrounding landscape is a mix of mangrove forests, agricultural fields (primarily rice cultivation), and fishing villages, creating a distinct urban-rural gradient. To the west, the land gradually rises, transitioning into the Odisha plains. The proximity to the Brahmani River and the Bay of Bengal introduces a maritime influence, impacting humidity and wind patterns. Industrially, the region is developing, with some port-related activities and nascent manufacturing, though not yet on a massive scale. However, the potential for future industrial expansion, coupled with the existing agricultural practices (including burning of crop residue), poses a significant challenge to maintaining clean air. The city’s location within a densely populated coastal belt means that regional pollution sources can easily impact Parādīp Garh’s air quality, making it susceptible to transboundary pollution events. The estuarine environment also traps pollutants, hindering dispersion.

Parādīp Garh’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s tropical monsoon climate. The monsoon season, typically spanning from June to September, brings relief from accumulated pollutants due to frequent rainfall and strong onshore winds that effectively flush out particulate matter. Humidity levels are high during this period, which can slightly reduce the perception of air pollution, although pollutants remain present. The pre-monsoon months (March-May) are often the most challenging, characterized by high temperatures, stagnant air, and frequent temperature inversions. These inversions trap pollutants near the ground, leading to a build-up of emissions from agricultural burning and any local industrial activity. The dry season (October-February) presents a mixed picture. While winds are generally more consistent than during the pre-monsoon period, fog is common, particularly in December and January. Fog significantly reduces visibility and traps pollutants, creating localized pockets of poor air quality. Agricultural practices, including the burning of crop residue after the harvest, contribute significantly to particulate matter during this time. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor exertion during the pre-monsoon and foggy periods. During the monsoon, while overall air quality improves, those with allergies may experience increased discomfort due to high humidity and pollen levels. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification is advisable throughout the year, especially during periods of stagnant air or fog.