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Sānkrāil, a municipality in the North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, India, occupies a relatively low-lying position within the Ganges Delta. Situated at coordinates 22.5583°N, 88.2278°E, the city’s terrain is predominantly flat alluvial plains, characteristic of the region. Its proximity to the Hooghly River, a major distributary of the Ganges, significantly influences local climate and air circulation patterns. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of intensely cultivated agricultural land – primarily rice paddies – interspersed with pockets of mangrove forests closer to the river. Sānkrāil’s urban character is evolving, transitioning from a largely rural settlement to a more densely populated urban centre, driven by migration from surrounding villages and Kolkata’s expanding metropolitan influence. This urban-rural gradient creates complex air quality dynamics. While agricultural practices contribute to seasonal biomass burning, the increasing vehicular traffic and small-scale industrial activity within and around Sānkrāil are emerging as key pollution sources. The city’s location downwind of Kolkata during certain wind patterns means it can experience transboundary pollution. The flat terrain also limits natural dispersion of pollutants, exacerbating local air quality issues, particularly during calm weather conditions. The lack of significant elevation hinders vertical mixing, trapping pollutants near ground level.

Sānkrāil’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern, heavily influenced by the monsoon and post-monsoon periods. The pre-monsoon months of March to May are typically the worst for air quality. Rising temperatures and stagnant air create conditions for temperature inversions, trapping pollutants emitted from vehicles, local industries, and agricultural burning. Dust from construction and road traffic also contributes significantly. 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 contribute to localised dampness and mould growth, impacting respiratory health. Post-monsoon, from October to November, sees a resurgence of pollution as agricultural burning intensifies after the harvest. Cooler temperatures and calmer winds again favour pollutant accumulation. Winter, from December to February, often brings foggy conditions, further reducing visibility and trapping pollutants. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during March-May and October-November. Avoiding peak traffic hours and using masks when outdoors are recommended. Monitoring local weather reports for wind conditions is also advisable.