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Martapura, the capital of Banjar Regency in South Kalimantan, Indonesia, occupies a geographically significant position within the island’s southern interior. Located at approximately -3.45° latitude and 114.83° longitude, the city sits within a low-lying alluvial plain, a direct consequence of the Barito River’s extensive floodplain. The terrain is predominantly flat, rarely exceeding 30 meters above sea level, contributing to a humid, tropical climate and limited natural ventilation. Surrounding Martapura is a mosaic of agricultural land, primarily focused on rice cultivation and oil palm plantations, a dominant feature of the regional economy. To the west, the landscape gradually transitions into peat swamp forests, while the Barito River and its tributaries define the eastern and northern boundaries, influencing local hydrology and microclimates. The urban fabric of Martapura is characterized by a dense network of waterways and canals, reflecting its historical reliance on river transport and irrigation. While not directly adjacent to the coast, the proximity to the Barito River introduces a maritime influence, moderating temperatures slightly. Industrial activity is concentrated around the city center, primarily involving palm oil processing and rubber production, alongside smaller workshops and trading businesses. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural lands quickly enveloping the city limits, impacting air quality through agricultural emissions and dust from land clearing activities. The flat topography and limited elevation hinder the dispersion of pollutants, particularly during periods of stagnant air.

Martapura’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from June to October, often witnesses a noticeable increase in particulate matter. This is largely attributable to heightened agricultural activity – land clearing for planting, harvesting, and the burning of crop residues – releasing significant amounts of smoke and dust into the atmosphere. Reduced rainfall during this period also limits the natural cleansing effect of precipitation, allowing pollutants to accumulate. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants close to the ground, exacerbating the problem. Conversely, the wet season, from November to May, brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, generally leading to improved air quality as pollutants are washed away. However, periods of prolonged fog, particularly during the transition months, can temporarily reduce visibility and trap moisture-borne pollutants. The monsoon winds, though generally beneficial in dispersing pollutants, can occasionally bring in smoke haze from distant forest fires, a recurring regional issue. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution periods, typically mid-morning and late afternoon. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration is also advisable. The transition months, with their potential for fog and haze, require similar vigilance.