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Rāmjībanpur, nestled in the Purba Bardhaman district of West Bengal, India (22.8300° N, 87.6200° E), occupies a geographically significant position within the fertile Gangetic plains. The city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the alluvial soil deposits left by the Hooghly River, a major distributary of the Ganges. Rāmjībanpur’s elevation is relatively low, contributing to atmospheric stability and potential for pollutant accumulation. The surrounding landscape is dominated by agricultural fields – rice paddies and jute cultivation are prevalent – forming a strong urban-rural gradient. This agricultural activity, while vital to the regional economy, introduces sources of particulate matter, particularly during harvest seasons when burning of crop residue is practiced. The city’s proximity to the Hooghly River, though providing a water source, can also influence local weather patterns, sometimes leading to increased humidity and reduced wind speeds, hindering pollutant dispersion. Further west, industrial belts centered around Durgapur and Asansol exert an indirect influence, with potential for long-range transport of pollutants. The relatively low elevation and flat topography, combined with the surrounding agricultural lands and distant industrial zones, create a complex interplay of factors that significantly impact Rāmjībanpur’s air quality, making it susceptible to both local and regional pollution sources. The gradual transition from rural agricultural areas to the urban core also contributes to localized variations in air quality within the city itself.

Rāmjībanpur’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The dry season, spanning roughly October to May, typically witnesses the poorest air quality. During these months, lower humidity and reduced rainfall lead to a decrease in natural pollutant washout. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler evenings and mornings, trap pollutants close to the ground, exacerbating the problem. November and December often experience dense fog, further restricting atmospheric mixing and concentrating pollutants. Agricultural burning, prevalent in the post-harvest period (October-November), contributes significantly to particulate matter levels. The monsoon season (June-September) brings a welcome respite. Heavy rainfall effectively ‘washes’ pollutants from the atmosphere, and increased wind speeds promote dispersion. However, even during the monsoon, periods of calm weather can lead to localized pollution spikes. The pre-monsoon period (April-May) can be problematic, with high temperatures and dry winds creating conditions conducive to dust and particulate matter accumulation. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of fog or agricultural burning. Outdoor activities are generally more favourable during the monsoon months, although vigilance is still advised during periods of stagnant air. The transition months (March and October) often present unpredictable air quality, requiring careful monitoring and adaptive behaviour.