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Mayureswar, nestled in the Birbhum district of West Bengal, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the broader Ganges Delta region. Located at approximately 23.99°N, 87.76°E, the town’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the fertile alluvial plains formed by the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – primarily rice and jute cultivation – interspersed with pockets of sal forest, typical of the Chota Nagpur Plateau’s fringes. This agricultural intensity contributes to seasonal biomass burning, a factor influencing local air quality. Mayureswar’s elevation is relatively low, around 25 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate the trapping of pollutants, particularly during periods of atmospheric stability. The town sits within a gradual urban–rural gradient; while it maintains a distinct small-town character, it’s increasingly influenced by the proximity of larger urban centers like Suri and Bolpur. The Hooghly River, though not immediately adjacent, exerts a regional climatic influence, moderating temperatures and contributing to humidity. While Mayureswar itself lacks major heavy industries, its location within a broader agricultural belt and its connectivity to regional transport networks mean it is susceptible to pollutants originating from industrial zones further afield, carried by prevailing winds. The flat topography limits natural dispersion of pollutants, making the town vulnerable to localized air quality degradation.

Mayureswar’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The dry season, spanning roughly October to May, typically sees a gradual increase in pollution levels. November and December often bring periods of dense fog, particularly during the early morning hours, which traps pollutants close to the ground, significantly reducing visibility and increasing exposure. The agricultural practices prevalent in the surrounding areas, including post-harvest burning of crop residue, contribute substantially to particulate matter during this period. January and February are often the most challenging months for air quality, with stagnant air and cooler temperatures promoting inversion layers – where a layer of warm air sits above cooler air, preventing vertical mixing and trapping pollutants. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings a welcome respite. Heavy rainfall effectively ‘washes’ pollutants from the atmosphere, leading to a significant improvement in air quality. Strong winds associated with the monsoon also aid in dispersion. However, even during the monsoon, localized pollution can arise from construction activities and vehicular emissions. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during foggy periods and avoid strenuous outdoor activity. The transition months of March-April and September-October see fluctuating conditions, with air quality generally improving as the monsoon approaches or recedes, but still susceptible to localized events like dust storms.