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Sangota, nestled in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, occupies a geographically significant position within the broader Hindu Kush mountain range. Located at approximately 34.78°N, 72.41°E, and an elevation of around 1,200 meters (3,937 feet), the town’s terrain is characterized by steep slopes and valleys, typical of the region's rugged landscape. Sangota sits within a transitional zone, bridging the foothills of the mountains with the more gently sloping plains further east. The surrounding landscape is dominated by agricultural fields – primarily orchards and terraced farms cultivating fruits like apples, apricots, and peaches – interspersed with pockets of coniferous forests higher up the slopes. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, contributes to seasonal particulate matter. The town’s proximity to the Kabul River, though not directly adjacent, influences local humidity and temperature patterns. The urban–rural gradient around Sangota is relatively sharp; the town itself is small, with a population of just over 14,000, quickly giving way to rural agricultural communities. There are no major industrial belts immediately surrounding Sangota, however, the region experiences some transportation-related pollution from vehicles traversing the mountainous roads. Topographically, the valley setting can exacerbate air pollution episodes, as the surrounding mountains can trap pollutants, particularly during periods of low wind speed and temperature inversions. The valley’s orientation also influences sunlight exposure and temperature fluctuations, impacting atmospheric chemistry and pollutant dispersion.

Sangota’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by its climate and surrounding environment. The winter months (November to February) are typically the most challenging. Cold temperatures frequently lead to temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air sits above cooler air trapped in the valley, preventing vertical mixing and trapping pollutants near the ground. Fog, common during these months, further reduces visibility and concentrates particulate matter. Agricultural burning, a practice used to clear fields after harvest, significantly contributes to pollution during this period. Spring (March to May) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and winds increase, dispersing pollutants. However, dust storms originating from the plains to the east can occasionally impact air quality. The monsoon season (June to September) generally provides a period of cleaner air due to increased rainfall, which washes pollutants from the atmosphere and higher wind speeds. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased humidity and the release of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) from vegetation. Autumn (October) sees a return to cooler temperatures and a gradual decline in air quality as the conditions conducive to pollution re-establish themselves. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the winter months, limiting outdoor activity during periods of heavy fog or visible haze. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can also be beneficial throughout the year, particularly during peak pollution periods.