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Tarogong, nestled within the province of Jawa Barat (West Java), Indonesia, occupies a geographically complex position. Located at -7.2150° latitude and 107.8856° longitude, the city is situated in a valley, surrounded by the Priangan highlands. This terrain significantly influences air quality, creating potential for pollutant trapping during periods of atmospheric stability. The Cimanuk River flows nearby, a vital water source but also a potential pathway for industrial discharge impacting downstream air quality. Tarogong’s urban character is rapidly evolving, transitioning from a primarily agricultural area to a more industrialised hub, particularly focused on textile manufacturing and food processing. This industrial growth, concentrated along the riverbanks, is a key contributor to localised pollution. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of rice paddies, tea plantations, and increasingly, residential and commercial developments. An observable urban-rural gradient exists, with air quality generally deteriorating closer to the city centre and industrial zones. The elevation, averaging around 600-800 meters above sea level, moderates temperatures but doesn’t prevent the build-up of pollutants in the valley during calm weather conditions. The proximity to larger urban centres like Bandung also contributes to regional pollutant transport.

Tarogong experiences a tropical monsoon climate, defining its air quality patterns through distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, generally from May to September, consistently presents the poorest air quality. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, allowing pollutants from industrial activity and vehicle emissions to accumulate. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, exacerbate this by trapping pollutants near ground level. August and September are typically the months with the highest concentrations of particulate matter. The wet season, from October to April, brings relief. Heavy rainfall effectively washes pollutants from the air, improving visibility and reducing respiratory irritants. However, increased humidity can also foster mould growth, impacting indoor air quality. November and December often see a temporary dip in air quality due to agricultural burning practices in surrounding areas. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exertion during the dry season, particularly in the late afternoon and early evening. Monitoring weather forecasts for wind direction is also advisable, as pollutants can be transported from nearby industrial areas.