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Eminabad, nestled within the fertile plains of Punjab, Pakistan, occupies a geographically significant position at 32.0422°N, 74.2600°E. The city’s terrain is largely flat, characteristic of the broader Indo-Gangetic Plain, with a gentle slope towards the south. This flatness contributes to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. Eminabad’s location is deeply intertwined with the Ravi River, which flows nearby, though its influence on local air currents is often overshadowed by regional wind patterns. The surrounding landscape is dominated by intensive agricultural zones, particularly wheat, rice, and sugarcane cultivation. These agricultural practices, including seasonal crop burning, are a major contributor to particulate matter pollution. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with the city centre experiencing higher concentrations of vehicular and industrial emissions, while surrounding villages rely more heavily on biomass burning for heating and cooking. The proximity to larger industrial hubs in Gujranwala and Lahore exacerbates the situation, as pollutants can be transported by prevailing winds. The city’s elevation is low, around 213 meters, further limiting atmospheric mixing and trapping pollutants near the ground. This combination of factors creates a challenging environment for maintaining good air quality in Eminabad.

Eminabad experiences a distinct seasonal air quality pattern. Autumn and winter (October to February) represent the most polluted period. Cooler temperatures lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants close to the ground. Simultaneously, post-harvest crop residue burning releases significant amounts of particulate matter. Fog, common during these months, further reduces visibility and exacerbates respiratory issues. March and April offer a brief respite as winds pick up and rainfall washes away some pollutants, though dust storms remain a concern. The pre-monsoon months of May and June see rising temperatures and increased dust levels, leading to moderate pollution. The monsoon season (July to September) generally brings the cleanest air, as heavy rainfall effectively scrubs the atmosphere. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of secondary pollutants. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the autumn and winter months. During the monsoon, while air is cleaner, the risk of waterborne diseases increases. Avoiding peak traffic hours and using air purifiers indoors are recommended strategies throughout the year, particularly during periods of high pollution.