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Gursarāi, nestled in the heart of Uttar Pradesh, India, occupies a geographically significant position along the Grand Trunk Road, a historic trade route connecting northern and southern India. Located at approximately 25.62°N, 79.18°E, the town sits within the fertile Gangetic Plain, a vast alluvial landscape formed by the Ganges River and its tributaries. The terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Indo-Gangetic Plain, with minimal elevation changes. This flatness, while beneficial for agriculture, contributes to air quality challenges as it limits natural dispersion of pollutants. Gursarāi’s proximity to the Ganges River, though providing a vital water source, can also influence local weather patterns and humidity levels, impacting pollutant behaviour. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – primarily wheat, rice, and sugarcane – interspersed with small villages and scattered industrial units. The urban–rural gradient transitions rapidly, with agricultural activities dominating the immediate periphery. Further afield, the region is part of a broader industrial belt, with larger cities like Prayagraj and Kanpur exhibiting significant industrial activity. This regional industrial presence contributes to transboundary pollution, impacting air quality in Gursarāi. The lack of significant topographical features means that pollutants released locally, or transported from elsewhere, tend to accumulate, particularly during periods of stagnant air. The flat terrain also encourages the use of vehicles, further exacerbating local emissions. The soil composition, rich in silt and clay, can also contribute to dust resuspension, a significant source of particulate matter.

Gursarāi’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The summer months (April-June) are typically the most challenging, characterized by high temperatures and minimal rainfall. This leads to increased dust resuspension from agricultural fields and construction activities, compounded by stagnant air conditions. Temperature inversions, common during this period, trap pollutants near the ground, worsening air quality. The monsoon season (July-September) brings relief, with heavy rainfall washing away pollutants and strong winds dispersing them. However, monsoon also brings agricultural burning, a significant source of smoke and particulate matter, particularly in late September and early October. The post-monsoon season (October-November) often sees a return to poorer air quality as humidity decreases and agricultural burning continues. Fog, a frequent occurrence during this period, further traps pollutants, reducing visibility and exacerbating respiratory issues. Winter months (December-March) are generally cooler, but persistent fog and temperature inversions can lead to prolonged periods of poor air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during the summer and winter months, particularly on days with dense fog. During agricultural burning periods, wearing N95 masks is recommended. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers can also provide some protection. Staying informed about local air quality conditions and adhering to public health advisories is crucial for minimizing exposure.