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Gaurhāti, nestled in the Purba Bardhaman district of West Bengal, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Ganges Delta region. Located at approximately 22.7687° N, 87.8084° E, the city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the alluvial plains formed by the mighty Ganges River and its tributaries. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of fertile agricultural land, primarily dedicated to rice cultivation and jute farming, interspersed with small villages and scattered industrial units. This proximity to intensive agricultural practices contributes to seasonal particulate matter pollution, particularly from crop residue burning. Gaurhāti’s elevation is relatively low, averaging around 12 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate the trapping of pollutants, especially during periods of stagnant air. The city lies within a transitional zone between the densely populated urban centers of Kolkata and the more rural districts of West Bengal, creating a gradual urban–rural gradient. While not directly bordering a major river, the region’s hydrology is heavily influenced by the Ganges, impacting local climate patterns and potentially influencing the dispersion of pollutants. The presence of nearby industrial belts, focused on textiles and food processing, further adds to the complexity of the local air quality profile. Topography offers little natural ventilation, and the flat expanse allows for pollutants to spread horizontally, impacting a wider area.

Gaurhāti’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The dry season, typically spanning from October to May, witnesses a gradual deterioration in air quality. November and December often experience elevated particulate matter levels due to widespread crop residue burning in the surrounding agricultural lands following the harvest season. This practice, while economically vital for farmers, releases significant amounts of smoke and pollutants into the atmosphere. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler months, trap pollutants near the ground, further worsening conditions. January and February can be particularly challenging, with frequent fog episodes reducing visibility and exacerbating respiratory issues. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief as rainfall washes away pollutants and strong winds disperse them. However, even during the monsoon, localized pollution can arise from industrial emissions and vehicular traffic. The transition months of March and April see a gradual increase in temperature and a decrease in rainfall, leading to a slow return of pre-monsoon pollution levels. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly in November and December, and limit prolonged outdoor exposure. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is advisable during periods of poor air quality.