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Makrāna, nestled in the heart of Rajasthan, India, is a city profoundly shaped by its arid landscape and geological significance. Located at 27.0409°N, 74.7273°E, the city sits within a relatively flat terrain, part of the broader Marwar region. Its elevation is modest, contributing to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. Makrāna is globally renowned as a major source of high-quality marble, and this industry dominates its economic and environmental profile. The surrounding landscape is primarily semi-arid scrubland, transitioning into the Thar Desert further west. While no major bodies of water are immediately adjacent, the Luni River flows nearby, though its water levels are often low and seasonal. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; Makrāna itself is a concentrated urban centre, surrounded by sparsely populated agricultural lands and smaller villages. The marble mining and processing activities generate substantial dust, a key contributor to local air pollution. The city’s position within a rain shadow region exacerbates dust suspension, as rainfall is infrequent and insufficient to effectively cleanse the atmosphere. The concentration of industry within a limited area, coupled with prevailing wind patterns, further concentrates pollution levels, impacting the city’s air quality and the health of its 105,080 residents.

Makrāna experiences a distinct seasonal air quality pattern dictated by the monsoon and prevailing winds. The pre-monsoon months of April and May are typically the worst for air quality. Intense heat creates strong convective currents, lifting marble dust and other particulate matter into the air, while stable atmospheric conditions trap pollutants. The onset of the monsoon in July and August brings temporary relief, as rainfall washes away accumulated dust and pollutants. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of secondary pollutants. Post-monsoon, from September to November, air quality gradually deteriorates as dust levels rise again with decreasing rainfall and changing wind patterns. Winter, from December to February, sees cooler temperatures and often calm conditions, leading to temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground, particularly from residential heating and industrial sources. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should avoid prolonged outdoor activity during April-May and December-February. The monsoon months offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activities, though vigilance regarding humidity-related issues is still advised. Local health advisories should be closely followed, and the use of respirators is recommended during peak pollution periods.