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Zalun, a small city nestled within Myanmar’s Ayeyarwady Region, occupies a low-lying position in the delta formed by the Ayeyarwady River. Its coordinates (17.4719, 95.5522) place it squarely within a network of waterways, canals, and rice paddies, characteristic of this fertile deltaic landscape. The terrain is almost entirely flat, with elevations rarely exceeding a few meters above sea level, making it highly susceptible to seasonal flooding. Zalun’s urban character is defined by its reliance on riverine transport and agriculture; the city serves as a local trading hub for the surrounding rural communities. The surrounding landscape is dominated by intensely cultivated rice fields, interspersed with small villages and mangrove forests closer to the river mouth. This agricultural intensity, while vital to the regional economy, contributes to air quality concerns through seasonal burning of rice stubble and the use of agricultural chemicals. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with a rapid transition from densely populated areas within Zalun to the expansive agricultural lands. Proximity to the Ayeyarwady River influences humidity and can trap pollutants during periods of calm weather, exacerbating localised air quality issues. The lack of significant industrial belts within Zalun itself means that pollution sources are primarily diffuse and linked to agricultural practices and domestic fuel use.

Zalun experiences a pronounced wet and dry season, dictating the patterns of air quality throughout the year. The dry season, roughly from November to April, typically sees the poorest air quality. This is due to increased dust from agricultural activities, the widespread burning of rice stubble after harvest, and stable atmospheric conditions that inhibit pollutant dispersal. January and February are often the most challenging months, with reduced rainfall and frequent temperature inversions trapping pollutants near ground level. Sensitive individuals, including those with respiratory conditions and the elderly, should limit strenuous outdoor activity during these periods. The onset of the monsoon season in May brings a dramatic improvement in air quality. Heavy rainfall effectively washes away particulate matter, and increased wind speeds disperse pollutants. However, the monsoon can also lead to increased humidity and mould growth, potentially triggering respiratory issues. The period from June to October generally offers the best air quality, though localised flooding can create stagnant water conditions and contribute to mosquito-borne diseases. Fog can occur during the transition periods, further reducing visibility and potentially trapping pollutants. Overall, avoiding outdoor exertion during the peak of the dry season is advisable, while the monsoon months offer a respite from poor air quality.