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Kalyani, a municipality in Nadia district, West Bengal, occupies a strategically important position within the Ganges Delta, approximately 35 kilometers north of Kolkata. Its coordinates (22.9750° N, 88.4344° E) place it on relatively flat terrain, characteristic of the alluvial plains formed by the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges. The city’s elevation averages around 12 meters above sea level, contributing to a low dispersion potential for pollutants. Kalyani is bordered by agricultural lands, primarily rice paddies and jute fields, which, while vital to the regional economy, can contribute to seasonal biomass burning and fugitive dust emissions. To the east lies the Hooghly River, offering some degree of moisture and influencing local weather patterns, but also potentially carrying pollutants downstream. The urban–rural gradient around Kalyani is gradual, with smaller villages and agricultural holdings transitioning into the urban fabric. The proximity to the industrial belt of Kolkata, though not immediately adjacent, means Kalyani is susceptible to the advection of pollutants from that larger metropolitan area, particularly during periods of low wind speed. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with scattered settlements and a relatively sparse tree cover, further limiting the natural capacity for air purification. The flat topography and limited vertical mixing exacerbate the trapping of pollutants, especially during cooler months when temperature inversions are more frequent. This geographical setting creates a unique challenge for air quality management, requiring targeted strategies to mitigate both local and regional pollution sources.

Kalyani’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The monsoon season, typically from June to September, brings relief from accumulated pollutants due to frequent rainfall and strong winds that effectively flush out particulate matter. However, the preceding pre-monsoon period (March-May) often witnesses a significant deterioration in air quality. Rising temperatures and decreasing humidity create stable atmospheric conditions, promoting temperature inversions – layers of warm air trapping cooler air and pollutants near the ground. Agricultural burning, a common practice for clearing fields after the harvest, contributes substantially to particulate pollution during this time. The winter months (November-February) are also challenging. Cold, calm conditions and frequent fog episodes further restrict vertical mixing, leading to pollutant accumulation. While the air is often visibly clearer due to the fog, the trapped pollutants can pose a health risk. The post-monsoon season (October) sees a transitional period with improving air quality as rainfall decreases and winds pick up. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and winter months, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution episodes. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable. Awareness campaigns promoting cleaner agricultural practices and reducing reliance on fossil fuels are crucial for long-term air quality improvement.