Patnāgarh, a small town in Odisha, India, sits at coordinates 20.7083°N, 83.1326°E, nestled within the coastal plains of the state. With a population of approximately 24,676, it’s a primarily agrarian community, reflecting the broader regional economy. The terrain is largely flat, characteristic of the eastern Indian plains, with a gentle slope towards the Bay of Bengal, approximately 60km to the east. This proximity to the coast influences local weather patterns, bringing humidity and seasonal monsoon rains. The surrounding landscape is dominated by rice paddies and agricultural land, interspersed with small pockets of deciduous forests. While not a major industrial hub itself, Patnāgarh is situated within a region experiencing increasing industrial activity, particularly around nearby Angul and Talcher, known for their coal mines and power plants. This regional industrialisation contributes to background pollution levels. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; Patnāgarh itself maintains a small-town character, but is increasingly connected to larger urban centres via road networks. The flat topography and limited natural ventilation can exacerbate localised pollution events, trapping emissions from vehicles, biomass burning (agricultural waste), and small-scale industries. Dust from unpaved roads also contributes significantly to particulate matter concentrations.

Patnāgarh’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the monsoon and post-monsoon conditions. The pre-monsoon months (March-May) see a build-up of pollutants due to stagnant air, high temperatures, and increased dust from agricultural activities and road construction. This is often the worst period for air quality. The arrival of the southwest monsoon in June-September brings significant relief, as rainfall washes away pollutants and wind speeds increase, dispersing emissions. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of secondary pollutants. October-November, the post-monsoon period, often experiences a resurgence in pollution as the monsoon retreats and temperatures begin to drop, leading to temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground. Winter months (December-February) can see moderate pollution levels, exacerbated by fog and calm winds, particularly in the early mornings. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods. During the monsoon, while air is cleaner, the increased humidity can trigger respiratory issues in some individuals. Avoiding peak traffic hours and areas with biomass burning are crucial year-round.