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Chāmpāhāti, nestled in the Purba Bardhaman district of West Bengal, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Ganges Delta region. Located at approximately 22.4043° N latitude and 88.4937° E longitude, the city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the fertile alluvial plains formed by the Ganges River and its tributaries. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – primarily rice paddies and jute cultivation – interspersed with small villages and scattered groves of mango and palm trees. This close proximity to intensive agricultural zones contributes to seasonal particulate matter, particularly during harvest periods when biomass burning is common. Chāmpāhāti sits relatively close to the Damodar River, though direct impact on the city’s air quality is less pronounced than the influence of regional agricultural practices and industrial activity. The urban–rural gradient transitions rapidly around Chāmpāhāti; the city itself is a small urban centre, but it’s within reach of larger industrial belts concentrated further west, towards Durgapur and Asansol. These industrial areas, while not immediately adjacent, can contribute to regional haze and pollutant transport. The low elevation (around 20 meters above sea level) and flat topography limit atmospheric dispersion, potentially trapping pollutants and exacerbating air quality issues, especially during periods of stagnant air. The prevailing winds, often light and variable, further complicate the dispersal of emissions, making Chāmpāhāti susceptible to localized pollution build-up.

Chāmpāhāti’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The dry season, typically spanning from October to May, presents the most challenging period. During these months, lower humidity and reduced rainfall contribute to increased particulate matter concentrations. Agricultural burning, a widespread practice for clearing fields after the harvest, significantly elevates PM2.5 and PM10 levels, particularly in November and December. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of winter (January and February), trap pollutants close to the ground, worsening air quality. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief with frequent rainfall and strong winds that effectively flush out pollutants. However, the onset of the monsoon can be preceded by periods of stagnant air and fog, especially in late September and early October, which can temporarily degrade air quality. The summer months (April and May) are characterized by high temperatures and dry winds, which can exacerbate the effects of existing pollutants. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution periods. It’s advisable to avoid strenuous outdoor exertion during the cooler months when temperature inversions are likely. During the monsoon, while overall air quality improves, individuals with allergies should be mindful of increased pollen counts and fungal spores. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can be beneficial throughout the year, particularly during periods of elevated pollution.