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Suknadānga, a small town in the Murshidabad district of West Bengal, India, occupies a relatively flat, low-lying portion of the Ganges Delta. Situated at approximately 24.46°N latitude and 88.05°E longitude, the town’s geography is fundamentally shaped by the proximity to the Bhagirathi River, a major distributary of the Ganges. The surrounding landscape is predominantly alluvial plains, intensely cultivated with rice paddies and jute fields, characteristic of the region’s agricultural economy. Elevation is minimal, generally below 15 meters above sea level, contributing to poor natural dispersion of pollutants. Suknadānga isn’t directly within a major industrial belt, but is downwind from larger industrial areas further south towards Kolkata and Baharampur, receiving transported pollutants. The urban-rural gradient is sharp; the town itself is a concentrated settlement amidst a vast agricultural hinterland. This proximity to agricultural land introduces seasonal biomass burning from crop residue disposal, a significant localised source of particulate matter. The flat terrain and limited windbreaks exacerbate the impact of these emissions, hindering pollutant dispersal. The humid, sub-tropical climate further influences air quality, promoting the formation of secondary pollutants. The town’s location within the delta makes it susceptible to localised flooding, which can mobilise pollutants and impact air quality indirectly.

Suknadānga experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, roughly November to April, sees the poorest air quality. Lower temperatures and stagnant air masses create temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. January and February are particularly challenging, with increased reliance on biomass burning for heating and cooking. Dust from agricultural activities also contributes. The pre-monsoon months of May and June bring rising temperatures and occasional dust storms, worsening particulate matter levels. The arrival of the monsoon in July brings a temporary respite. Heavy rainfall effectively washes away pollutants, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, high humidity can also promote the formation of mould and secondary pollutants. August and September, while generally cleaner, can experience localised flooding, which can redistribute pollutants. Post-monsoon, from October to November, air quality deteriorates again as the dry season approaches and agricultural burning intensifies. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly January-February and October-November. Wearing masks and using air purifiers indoors are recommended.