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Mahaditra, nestled within the Fianarantsoa Province of Madagascar, occupies a geographically significant position within the island’s central highlands. Located at approximately -21.75° latitude and 47.10° longitude, the city’s elevation, averaging around 1,100 meters (3,609 feet) above sea level, contributes to a cooler climate compared to coastal regions. The surrounding landscape is dominated by rolling hills and valleys, characteristic of the Betsileo plateau, a region known for its intensive rice cultivation and terraced fields. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to localized air pollution through the burning of agricultural waste and the use of fertilizers. Mahaditra’s proximity to the Onilahy River, flowing eastward, influences local humidity and can impact the dispersion of pollutants, particularly during periods of high rainfall. The urban fabric of Mahaditra is relatively compact, exhibiting a gradual urban-rural gradient as one moves outwards. While the city itself is small, with a population of just over 20,000, it serves as a regional market town, attracting traffic from surrounding agricultural communities. There are no major industrial belts immediately adjacent to Mahaditra; however, the transportation of agricultural goods and limited artisanal workshops within the city contribute to localized emissions. The terrain, with its undulating slopes, can create pockets of stagnant air, especially during periods of calm weather, hindering pollutant dispersal and potentially exacerbating air quality issues. The surrounding forests, though diminishing, still offer some natural air filtration capacity.

Mahaditra’s tropical highland climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, significantly influencing air quality throughout the year. The dry season, typically spanning from May to October, often sees clearer skies and reduced rainfall, but also a tendency for temperature inversions to form, particularly during the cooler months of June, July, and August. These inversions trap pollutants closer to the ground, potentially leading to increased concentrations of particulate matter and other emissions from domestic wood burning and agricultural activities. The burning of crop residue after harvest, a common practice in the surrounding agricultural lands, is a major contributor to air pollution during this period. Conversely, the wet season, from November to April, brings frequent rainfall and increased humidity. The consistent precipitation effectively ‘washes’ pollutants from the atmosphere, leading to improved air quality. Stronger winds associated with the monsoon season also aid in dispersing pollutants. Fog, common during the transition periods between seasons, can temporarily reduce visibility and trap pollutants in localized areas. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of stagnant air or agricultural burning. Outdoor activities are generally more favourable during the wet season, although heavy rainfall can still impact visibility and air quality due to increased dampness. The interplay of temperature, wind patterns, and rainfall creates a dynamic air quality profile, with the dry season posing the greatest challenge for air quality management.