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Mangalkot, nestled within the Burdwan district of West Bengal, India, occupies a relatively flat, low-lying terrain characteristic of the Gangetic plains. Situated at coordinates 23.5252°N, 87.9034°E, the city’s geography is profoundly shaped by its proximity to the Bhagirathi River, a major distributary of the Ganges. This fluvial influence contributes to the area’s fertile alluvial soil, supporting a predominantly agricultural landscape dominated by rice cultivation. The surrounding region is a mosaic of agricultural fields interspersed with small rural settlements, creating a strong urban-rural gradient as one moves away from Mangalkot’s central area. While not a major industrial hub itself, Mangalkot is within reach of larger industrial zones in the Burdwan district, potentially contributing to regional air pollution transport. The relatively stagnant air, common in plains environments, coupled with the seasonal humidity, can exacerbate pollutant concentrations. The lack of significant topographical features – hills or large forests – limits natural ventilation and dispersal of pollutants. This flat landscape and agricultural focus mean dust from fields, particularly during harvest, is a significant local contributor to particulate matter. The city’s position within the Indo-Gangetic Plain also makes it susceptible to long-range pollutant transport from other heavily populated and industrialised areas.

Mangalkot experiences a distinct wet and dry season pattern, heavily influencing its air quality. The pre-monsoon months of April and May bring scorching heat and dry winds, stirring up dust from agricultural lands and leading to elevated particulate matter levels. This is typically the period of poorest air quality. The arrival of the monsoon in June offers temporary relief, as rainfall washes away pollutants and increases humidity, suppressing dust. However, increased moisture can also promote the formation of mold and secondary pollutants. Post-monsoon, from September to November, sees a gradual return of drier conditions and a build-up of pollutants, though generally less severe than the pre-monsoon period. Winter, from December to February, often brings cooler temperatures and calmer winds, creating temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground, particularly in the mornings and evenings. Fog can further exacerbate this, reducing visibility and increasing pollutant concentrations. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the pre-monsoon and winter months. Maintaining good ventilation indoors and using air purifiers can offer some protection. The monsoon months generally offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activity, but awareness of mold growth is important.