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Charābidya, a small town in West Bengal, India, sits at coordinates 22.3271°N, 88.7879°E, within the Indo-Gangetic Plain. This region is characterised by a flat, alluvial terrain formed by the deposition of sediments from the Ganges and its tributaries. The town’s elevation is relatively low, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. Surrounding Charābidya is a landscape dominated by intensely cultivated agricultural land, primarily rice paddies, interspersed with small pockets of habitation. The proximity to Kolkata, a major metropolitan area and industrial hub approximately 80km south, significantly influences the regional air quality. While not directly within a major industrial belt, Charābidya experiences the downstream effects of emissions from those areas, carried by prevailing winds. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; the town itself is compact, quickly transitioning to agricultural fields. This proximity to agricultural practices introduces seasonal biomass burning, particularly after harvests, adding to local pollution sources. The lack of significant natural barriers like hills or forests hinders the flushing out of pollutants, making Charābidya susceptible to air quality issues, especially during calmer weather conditions. The seasonal flooding common to the region can also mobilise pollutants from soil and water sources.

Charābidya’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern. Post-monsoon, from October to February, experiences the poorest air quality. Cooler temperatures lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. Reduced wind speeds during these months further exacerbate the situation, allowing emissions from local sources – brick kilns, domestic cooking with biomass, and vehicle exhaust – to accumulate. January and February are typically the most challenging months for respiratory health. The pre-monsoon months, March to May, see rising temperatures and increased dust storms, contributing to particulate matter pollution. The arrival of the monsoon in June brings a temporary respite, as rainfall washes away pollutants and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, the monsoon also introduces challenges, with increased fungal spores and potential for waterborne disease. September, as the monsoon recedes, can see a build-up of stagnant air and humidity-related pollutants. For sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – avoiding outdoor activity during the post-monsoon and pre-monsoon periods is advisable. Monitoring local conditions and using appropriate respiratory protection when necessary is crucial.