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Salua, a small city nestled in the West Bengal landscape of eastern India, presents a unique geographic context influencing its air quality. Located at 22.6100°N latitude and 88.2700°E longitude, Salua sits within the Gangetic plains, a low-lying, fertile region. The terrain is predominantly flat, typical of alluvial plains formed by the deposition of sediments from major rivers. While not directly on a major riverbank, Salua is situated within the broader deltaic region influenced by the Hooghly River and its tributaries, contributing to high humidity levels. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural land – primarily rice paddies – and scattered human settlements. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with Salua acting as a local service centre for surrounding villages. This proximity to agricultural activities introduces potential sources of particulate matter from crop residue burning and fertilizer use. Furthermore, the region experiences industrial activity in nearby areas, particularly around Kolkata, which can contribute to transboundary pollution. The flat terrain and frequent temperature inversions, common in the plains, trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating air quality issues. The city’s relatively small size means emissions are more concentrated, impacting local air quality significantly.

Salua’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the monsoon and post-monsoon weather systems. The pre-monsoon months of March to May are typically the worst for air quality. Rising temperatures and stagnant air create conditions for pollutant build-up, worsened by agricultural fires preparing fields for sowing. Dust storms originating from the arid regions of western India can also contribute. The arrival of the monsoon in June brings a temporary respite, as rainfall washes away pollutants and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, the monsoon itself can lead to localised flooding and increased fungal spores, impacting respiratory health. Post-monsoon, from October to November, sees a resurgence of pollution. Cooler temperatures and calmer winds lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants. This period coincides with Diwali celebrations, adding to particulate matter levels from firecrackers. Winter, from December to February, is characterised by fog and low wind speeds, further exacerbating pollution. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during March-May and October-November. Maintaining good ventilation indoors and using air purifiers are recommended during peak pollution periods.