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Titāgarh, 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 22.7400°N, 88.3700°E, the city’s terrain is predominantly flat alluvial plain, characteristic of the region. This flatness contributes to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. The Hooghly River flows nearby, influencing local humidity and occasionally contributing to stagnant air conditions, particularly during calmer weather. Titāgarh is part of the Kolkata Metropolitan Area, experiencing a strong urban-rural gradient as it transitions into surrounding agricultural lands to the east and north. The city’s proximity to Kolkata, a major industrial and commercial hub, means it’s significantly impacted by regional pollution transport. Several small-scale industries operate within and around Titāgarh, including brick kilns and workshops, adding to local emission sources. The dense population of 116,541 further concentrates pollution. The surrounding landscape is dominated by rice paddies and wetlands, which, while ecologically important, can contribute to methane emissions and localised humidity that traps pollutants. The lack of significant elevation hinders atmospheric mixing, exacerbating air quality challenges.

Titāgarh’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, with rising temperatures and stagnant air leading to a build-up of particulate matter from construction, road dust, and industrial activity. May, before the monsoon’s arrival, is often particularly challenging. The southwest monsoon, arriving in June, brings temporary relief through rainfall which washes away pollutants and increased wind speeds that disperse emissions. However, increased humidity can also foster mould growth, impacting respiratory health. Post-monsoon, from September to November, sees a gradual deterioration as rainfall decreases and temperatures begin to fall, creating conditions for temperature inversions. These inversions trap pollutants near the ground. Winter, from December to February, often experiences foggy conditions, further reducing visibility and exacerbating particulate matter concentrations. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during March-May and December-February. Monitoring local weather forecasts and avoiding peak traffic hours are advisable throughout the year.