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Soro, Odisha, situated at approximately 21.29°N, 86.69°E, occupies a geographically significant position within the coastal plains of eastern India. The town lies within the mineral-rich belt of Odisha, a factor profoundly influencing its surrounding landscape and, consequently, its air quality. Soro’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the fertile delta region formed by the Bramhani River and its tributaries. This flatness, while beneficial for agriculture, can exacerbate air pollution episodes as it limits vertical mixing and allows pollutants to accumulate. The town is surrounded by a mosaic of agricultural land, primarily rice paddies and pulses, interspersed with pockets of deciduous forests and small-scale mining operations extracting coal and iron ore – key contributors to regional air quality challenges. The urban–rural gradient around Soro is relatively gradual, with smaller villages and agricultural fields transitioning seamlessly into the town’s periphery. The proximity to the Bay of Bengal, roughly 60 kilometers to the east, introduces a maritime influence, occasionally bringing in sea breezes that can disperse pollutants, but also contributing to humidity and fog formation, particularly during the cooler months. The presence of industrial clusters further inland, processing minerals and manufacturing goods, adds another layer of complexity to the regional air quality profile, with prevailing winds often carrying pollutants towards Soro. Elevation is minimal, averaging around 30 meters above sea level, further hindering atmospheric dispersion.

Soro’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by the region’s monsoonal climate. The monsoon season, typically spanning June to September, brings relief from accumulated pollutants due to frequent rainfall and strong winds that effectively flush the atmosphere. However, the preceding pre-monsoon period (March-May) often witnesses a significant deterioration in air quality. High temperatures, stagnant air, and the prevalence of fog, particularly in the early morning hours, create conditions conducive to pollutant trapping. Temperature inversions, common during this period, prevent vertical mixing, further concentrating pollutants near ground level. The post-monsoon season (October-November) sees a gradual improvement as rainfall decreases, but residual agricultural burning, a common practice for clearing fields, can contribute to localized spikes in particulate matter. Winter months (December-February) are characterized by cooler temperatures and increased fog frequency, again hindering dispersion and potentially elevating pollution levels. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and winter months, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution hours (early morning and late evening). Agricultural workers are particularly vulnerable and should utilize appropriate respiratory protection when burning agricultural residue. Public health advisories are crucial during periods of elevated pollution, emphasizing the importance of indoor air quality and minimizing exposure to outdoor sources.