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Mahālandi, a small town in the Murshidabad district of West Bengal, India, occupies a relatively flat alluvial plain within the Ganges Delta. Situated at approximately 24.07°N latitude and 88.12°E longitude, its elevation is minimal, averaging around 15 meters above sea level. This low-lying geography makes it particularly vulnerable to localised flooding during the monsoon season. The town is interwoven with a network of distributaries branching from the Bhagirathi River, a major channel of the Ganges, influencing local humidity and contributing to stagnant air conditions. Surrounding Mahālandi is a predominantly agricultural landscape, characterised by intensive rice cultivation and jute farming. While not a major industrial hub itself, the town’s proximity to larger industrial areas further south, along the Hooghly River, means it can experience transboundary pollution. The urban-rural gradient is sharp; the town centre is densely populated, transitioning quickly to agricultural fields. This proximity to agricultural practices introduces seasonal biomass burning, a significant contributor to particulate matter. The flat terrain restricts natural ventilation, exacerbating pollution build-up, especially during calmer weather conditions. The deltaic environment also promotes the formation of fog during winter, trapping pollutants near the ground.

Mahālandi’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern. The post-monsoon months (October-November) often see a deterioration in air quality due to the burning of crop residue after the harvest, particularly rice straw, releasing significant amounts of particulate matter. Calm winds during this period exacerbate the issue. Winter (December-February) brings cooler temperatures and frequent fog, creating strong temperature inversions that trap pollutants close to the ground, leading to consistently poorer air quality. This is a period to avoid strenuous outdoor activity. The pre-monsoon months (March-May) witness rising temperatures and dust storms, increasing particulate matter concentrations. However, occasional thunderstorms can provide temporary relief. The monsoon season (June-September) generally offers the cleanest air, as rainfall washes away pollutants and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, flooding can disrupt waste management, potentially leading to localised waterborne pollution. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should be particularly cautious during the post-monsoon and winter months, limiting outdoor exposure and using appropriate respiratory protection. Monitoring local weather patterns is crucial for anticipating pollution spikes.