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Sittwe, the capital of Rakhine State in Myanmar, occupies a strategically vital position on the eastern bank of the Kaladan River, where it meets the Bay of Bengal. The city’s geography is dominated by a low-lying delta plain, characteristic of the Rakhine coastal region. Elevation rarely exceeds 10 meters above sea level, making it exceptionally vulnerable to sea-level rise and storm surges. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural land – primarily rice paddies and small-scale farming – interspersed with mangrove forests along the riverbanks and coastline. This agricultural activity, while crucial for the regional economy, contributes to localized air pollution through the burning of crop residues and the use of fertilizers. To the north and east, the terrain gradually rises towards the Rakhine Yoma hills, a range that can influence wind patterns and, occasionally, trap pollutants. Sittwe’s urban character is a blend of traditional wooden architecture and more modern concrete structures, reflecting its historical role as a trading port and administrative center. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural land quickly enveloping the city limits. The proximity to the Kaladan River and the Bay of Bengal introduces a maritime influence, moderating temperatures but also potentially carrying pollutants from distant sources via prevailing winds. Industrial activity is limited, primarily focused on small-scale processing of agricultural products and some fishing-related industries, but these contribute to localized emissions. The deltaic terrain and low elevation combine to create conditions where stagnant air and pollutant accumulation can occur, particularly during periods of calm weather.

Sittwe’s air quality is heavily influenced by its tropical monsoon climate, resulting in distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, typically spanning November to April, often sees a build-up of pollutants due to reduced rainfall and calmer wind conditions. During these months, agricultural burning practices intensify as farmers clear fields for the next planting season, releasing significant quantities of particulate matter and other emissions. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, are also more frequent, further exacerbating the problem. The months of January and February are generally the most challenging for air quality. Conversely, the monsoon season (May to October) brings frequent rainfall and strong winds, which effectively flush out pollutants and improve air quality. However, the monsoon also introduces its own challenges, including increased humidity and the potential for waterborne diseases. Fog, common during the transition periods between seasons, can also trap pollutants close to the ground, creating localized pockets of poor air quality. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution periods, particularly in the mornings. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers can also be beneficial. The strong winds of the monsoon season generally provide a respite, but vigilance is still advised during periods of reduced wind speed or localized agricultural burning.