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Bijaynagar, Rajasthan, nestled at approximately 25.93°N, 74.63°E, occupies a geographically significant position within the Thar Desert region. The city’s terrain is predominantly characterized by undulating sand dunes and rocky outcrops, typical of the semi-arid landscape. Elevation averages around 320 meters above sea level, contributing to a relatively dry climate and limited natural ventilation. Bijaynagar’s location, while offering scenic desert vistas, presents unique challenges for air quality. The surrounding landscape is largely agricultural, with fields of bajra, guar, and pulses dominating the rural areas immediately adjacent to the urban boundary. This agricultural activity, particularly during harvest seasons, contributes to particulate matter pollution through crop residue burning. Further afield, the Thar Desert’s expansive sandy plains limit the dispersal of pollutants, trapping them within the regional atmospheric basin. The city’s proximity to industrial zones in nearby towns, though not immediately adjacent, still influences air quality through long-range transport of pollutants. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with a noticeable shift from densely populated areas to sparsely populated agricultural lands within a short distance. The lack of significant bodies of water within close proximity further exacerbates the problem, as water bodies can naturally cleanse the air through precipitation and deposition. The prevailing wind patterns, often influenced by desert thermal dynamics, can either disperse or concentrate pollutants depending on their direction and intensity, creating localized hotspots of poor air quality.

Bijaynagar’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its arid climate and meteorological conditions. The dry, hot months of April and May typically experience the poorest air quality. Intense solar radiation leads to increased ozone formation, while stagnant air masses and temperature inversions trap pollutants close to the ground. Dust storms, common during this period, significantly elevate particulate matter concentrations. The monsoon season, arriving in July and lasting through September, brings a welcome respite. Increased rainfall effectively washes pollutants from the atmosphere, and stronger winds facilitate their dispersal. However, the monsoon also introduces humidity, which can exacerbate respiratory issues for some individuals. October and November see a gradual return to drier conditions, with a resurgence of agricultural burning as farmers prepare fields for the winter crop. This practice contributes significantly to particulate pollution. Winter months (December-February) are often characterized by fog, which traps pollutants and reduces visibility. While temperatures are cooler, the stagnant air and reduced sunlight can lead to a build-up of pollutants. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during peak pollution periods, particularly in April-May and during foggy winter mornings. Staying indoors with air purifiers and wearing N95 masks when venturing outside are recommended. Maintaining good hydration and avoiding strenuous physical activity during periods of poor air quality is also crucial.