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Koch Bihar, nestled in the northern part of West Bengal, India, occupies a unique geographic position within the Indo-Gangetic Plain. The city, with a population of approximately 77,935, sits at an elevation of around 43 meters (141 feet), contributing to relatively flat terrain. Its coordinates (26.3242, 89.4510) place it close to the Bangladesh border, influencing regional air currents and potential transboundary pollution. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, dominated by rice paddies and tea gardens, interspersed with patches of deciduous forests. The Teesta River flows nearby, though its influence on local air quality is more related to humidity and potential for localized fog formation than direct pollutant dispersion. Koch Bihar isn’t a major industrial hub, but smaller brick kilns and local industries contribute to particulate matter. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; the city centre experiences higher concentrations of vehicular emissions and domestic fuel burning, while surrounding villages rely heavily on biomass for cooking, impacting regional background pollution levels. This combination of agricultural practices, localized industry, and the flat topography creates conditions conducive to pollutant accumulation, particularly during periods of low wind speed and temperature inversions. The city’s location within the plains limits natural ventilation, exacerbating air quality challenges.

Koch Bihar experiences a distinct seasonal air quality pattern dictated by the monsoon and post-monsoon climate. The pre-monsoon months (March-May) are typically the worst for air quality. Rising temperatures and stagnant air create ideal conditions for dust and particulate matter to accumulate, worsened by agricultural burning preparing fields for sowing. May is often particularly challenging. The arrival of the monsoon (June-September) brings significant relief, as rainfall effectively washes pollutants from the atmosphere. Humidity increases, suppressing dust, and wind speeds generally pick up. However, increased moisture can also foster mold growth, impacting respiratory health. Post-monsoon (October-November) sees a gradual deterioration as temperatures cool and wind speeds decrease, trapping pollutants. This period can experience localized smog. Winter (December-February) brings cooler temperatures and frequent fog, leading to temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground. Biomass burning for warmth further degrades air quality. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during pre-monsoon and winter months. Monitoring local weather patterns and avoiding peak pollution times is crucial for protecting health.