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Doda, a small town nestled in the southwestern region of Punjab, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the broader Indo-Gangetic Plain. Located at approximately 30.3844° N, 74.6394° E, its elevation of around 235 meters above sea level contributes to a relatively flat terrain, typical of the fertile plains of Punjab. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, characterized by expansive fields of wheat, rice, and maize – a defining feature of the region’s rural economy. Doda’s proximity to the Ghaggar River, though not directly on its banks, influences local microclimates and water availability. The town sits within a gradual urban–rural gradient, transitioning from the denser urban areas of Ludhiana and Patiala to the more sparsely populated agricultural hinterland. This gradient impacts air quality, with rural agricultural practices and occasional stubble burning contributing to localized pollution events. While Doda itself is a small settlement, its location within a major agricultural belt means it’s susceptible to pollutants originating from larger industrial zones further east and the agricultural activities across the plains. The relatively flat topography and limited natural barriers exacerbate the persistence of pollutants, particularly during periods of low wind speed. The lack of significant elevation changes hinders the dispersion of airborne particles, leading to localized air quality challenges. The surrounding landscape, while visually appealing, also presents unique challenges in terms of managing agricultural emissions and their impact on the town’s air quality.

Doda’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by regional weather patterns and agricultural practices. The dry winter months (October to February) are typically the most challenging. Cold temperatures frequently lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground and significantly reducing air dispersion. Agricultural burning of crop residue after the harvest season, a common practice in Punjab, dramatically increases particulate matter concentrations during this period. Dense fog, a frequent occurrence in winter, further exacerbates the problem by limiting visibility and hindering pollutant dispersal. Spring (March to May) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and winds increase, helping to clear the air. However, dust storms originating from the Thar Desert can occasionally impact air quality. The monsoon season (June to September) offers a period of respite, with rainfall washing away pollutants and increased wind speeds promoting ventilation. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to localized flooding and associated waterborne health risks. The post-monsoon period (October) sees a return to drier conditions, setting the stage for the winter pollution peak. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the winter months, limiting outdoor activity and using air purifiers when possible. During the peak pollution periods, it’s advisable to wear N95 masks when venturing outside and to monitor local air quality reports for guidance. The transition months of spring and autumn require vigilance due to potential dust events and the return of agricultural burning, respectively.