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Māldah, situated in West Bengal, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Ganges River basin. Its coordinates (25.0044° N, 88.1458° E) place it on a relatively flat alluvial plain, a legacy of the region's historical riverine activity. The city’s terrain is predominantly low-lying, with an average elevation of around 28 meters above sea level, contributing to a tendency for pollutants to accumulate, particularly during periods of atmospheric stability. Māldah is surrounded by a landscape characterized by fertile agricultural lands, primarily dedicated to rice and jute cultivation, which, while economically vital, can contribute to seasonal particulate matter through agricultural burning practices. To the east, the plains gradually transition into the undulating Terai region. The proximity to the Kali River, a distributary of the Ganges, influences local humidity and temperature patterns, impacting atmospheric mixing and dispersion. While the river offers some degree of natural ventilation, its presence can also exacerbate fog formation during the cooler months. The urban–rural gradient around Māldah is relatively gradual, with smaller towns and villages interspersed within the agricultural landscape. Industrial activity is limited within the immediate city limits, but nearby industrial belts in the broader West Bengal region, particularly those focused on textiles and processing, can contribute to transboundary pollution episodes. The flat topography and prevailing wind patterns often result in pollutants originating from these distant sources impacting Māldah's air quality.

Māldah’s air quality exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The pre-monsoon months (March-May) typically witness the poorest air quality, characterized by stagnant conditions and increased particulate matter. Rising temperatures and decreasing wind speeds lead to atmospheric inversions, trapping pollutants close to the ground. Agricultural burning, a common practice to clear fields for the planting season, significantly contributes to this period’s elevated pollution levels. The monsoon season (June-September) brings a welcome respite, with frequent rainfall and strong winds effectively flushing out pollutants. Humidity increases, and temperatures moderate, leading to improved air quality. The post-monsoon season (October-November) sees a gradual return to less favourable conditions. Fog, a frequent occurrence due to high humidity and cooler temperatures, reduces visibility and traps pollutants, creating localized air quality challenges. Winter months (December-February) are generally cooler, with periods of improved air quality interspersed with episodes of fog-induced pollution. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods, limiting outdoor exertion and monitoring local air quality reports. During the fog-prone months, wearing masks and avoiding prolonged exposure to the outdoors is advisable. The monsoon season offers the most favourable conditions for outdoor activities, but even then, vigilance is recommended, particularly near areas with heavy traffic or industrial emissions.