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Belākoba, a municipality in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India, occupies a geographically significant position in the Indo-Gangetic Plain. Situated at coordinates 26.5900°N, 88.5890°E, the town lies relatively flat, typical of the alluvial terrain formed by the Teesta River and its tributaries. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural land, primarily tea gardens – a defining feature of the region – and increasingly, brick kilns supporting construction demands. Belākoba’s elevation is modest, around 138 meters above sea level, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. Its proximity to the Teesta River, while providing a water source, also creates conditions conducive to temperature inversions, particularly during the cooler months, trapping pollutants near the ground. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; Belākoba serves as a market and transport hub for surrounding rural communities. The increasing industrial activity, particularly brick production, coupled with vehicular traffic along National Highway 31C, significantly impacts local air quality. The town’s location within the densely populated and industrialized West Bengal plain means it’s susceptible to regional pollution transport, exacerbating local emission sources. This confluence of factors makes Belākoba a focal point for air quality concerns.

Belākoba experiences a distinct wet and dry season pattern, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, roughly November to April, sees consistently poorer air quality. Lower temperatures and stagnant air masses during winter months (December-January) promote temperature inversions, trapping particulate matter from brick kilns and vehicle emissions. Dust from unpaved roads also contributes. February and March see a slight improvement as temperatures rise, but agricultural burning of crop residue can cause temporary spikes. The pre-monsoon period (April-May) is characterized by hot, dry winds that can carry dust and pollutants from distant sources. The arrival of the monsoon in June brings a dramatic improvement in air quality. Heavy rainfall effectively washes away pollutants, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, increased moisture can also foster mold growth, impacting respiratory health. The monsoon typically lasts until September, offering the cleanest air of the year. October marks a transition period, with decreasing rainfall and a gradual return to drier conditions, and a corresponding decline in air quality. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly December-March, and consider using air purifiers indoors.