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Siuri, the district headquarters of Birbhum in West Bengal, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the fertile plains of the Bengal Basin. Located at approximately 23.91°N, 87.52°E, the city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the alluvial landscape formed by the Hooghly River and its tributaries. The elevation is relatively low, averaging around 28 meters above sea level, contributing to a tendency for pollutants to accumulate, particularly during periods of low wind speed. Siuri is surrounded by a mosaic of agricultural land, primarily dedicated to rice cultivation and mango orchards, a typical feature of the Birbhum region. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to seasonal particulate matter pollution from crop burning practices. To the west, the landscape gradually transitions towards the undulating terrain of the Chota Nagpur Plateau, influencing regional wind patterns. The city’s proximity to the Damodar River, though not directly adjacent, impacts the local microclimate and humidity levels. The urban–rural gradient around Siuri is relatively gradual, with smaller villages and agricultural holdings blending seamlessly into the urban fabric. The presence of small-scale industries, including brick kilns and agro-processing units, within and around Siuri adds to the potential for localised air pollution. The regional position, nestled within a densely populated and agriculturally intensive zone, means Siuri is susceptible to transboundary pollution events originating from larger industrial hubs further west and north, impacting air quality and public health.

Siuri’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The monsoon season, typically spanning June to September, brings relief from accumulated pollutants due to frequent rainfall and strong winds that effectively disperse airborne particles. Humidity levels are high during this period, which can exacerbate respiratory issues for some individuals. The pre-monsoon months (March-May) often witness a significant deterioration in air quality. Rising temperatures and decreasing wind speeds create conditions conducive to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants close to the ground. Agricultural burning, a common practice to clear fields for the Kharif season, contributes substantially to particulate matter pollution during this period. The post-monsoon season (October-November) sees a gradual improvement in air quality as temperatures begin to cool, but residual agricultural burning and stagnant air can still lead to elevated pollution levels. Winter months (December-February) are generally characterised by cooler temperatures and frequent fog, which further restricts atmospheric mixing and traps pollutants, particularly in the mornings. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and winter months, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution hours. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable. The monsoon offers the most favourable period for outdoor activities, although high humidity can still pose challenges for some.