Skip to main content

Summary:

A dense haze settled over parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain in late January, as seen in a satellite image captured by Copernicus Sentinel-2 on January 26, 2025. The image reveals a significant buildup of haze between Purnia and Muzaffarpur in Bihar, India, and Ramechhap and Biratnagar in southern Nepal. The widespread pollution affecting the region is driven by human activities, seasonal weather patterns, and geographic factors that trap pollutants near the surface.

A region vulnerable to pollution

The Indo-Gangetic Plain, extending from the delta of the Brahmaputra and Ganges rivers to the Indus River valley, is one of the most densely populated areas in the Indian subcontinent. It is home to nearly 40 percent of India’s population and spans northern India, eastern Pakistan, southern Nepal, and much of Bangladesh. While the region’s fertile land supports extensive agriculture, it also faces recurring air quality issues, particularly during the winter months when temperature inversions trap pollutants close to the ground.

Satellite Image: This image of part of the Indo-Gangetic Plain shows haze in the area between the cities of Purnia and Muzaffarpur in the State of Bihar, Eastern India, and Ramechhap and Biratnagar in southern Nepal
Indo-Gangetic Plain. Credit: European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery

The haze seen in the satellite image is largely a result of emissions from vehicle traffic, industrial activity, and crop residue burning. Additionally, the region’s unique topography contributes to the problem, as the Himalayas to the north act as a barrier that prevents pollutants from dispersing easily.

Health risks and air quality monitoring

Air pollution in the Indo-Gangetic Plain has been a growing concern, with long-term exposure linked to severe health impacts, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. A report from Down to Earth highlights that air pollution in the region could shorten the life expectancy of residents by as much as seven years.

To track and forecast pollution levels, the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) provides data on air quality in South and Southeast Asia. Their ongoing monitoring efforts help policymakers and researchers understand pollution trends and implement mitigation measures.

As air quality remains a critical issue for millions living in the Indo-Gangetic Plain, addressing pollution sources and strengthening monitoring efforts will be essential in the fight against worsening environmental and health impacts.

Featured image credit: European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery

This map shows the pair of Nord Stream natural gas pipelines that runs under the Baltic Sea from Russia to Germany
Methane leaks from Nord Stream pipeline blasts revised upNews

Methane leaks from Nord Stream pipeline blasts revised up

Paris, France | AFP A series of underwater explosions that ruptured the Nord Stream gas pipelines in 2022 caused the largest known methane leak on…
Muser NewsDeskMuser NewsDeskJanuary 15, 2025 Full article
Climate change intensifies and prolongs cyclones: international studyClimateScience

Climate change intensifies and prolongs cyclones: international study

Climate change means that tropical cyclones in Southeast Asia are developing faster, lasting longer and endangering more coastal communities, finds joint international study. By Nanyang…
SourceSourceAugust 1, 2024 Full article
Palm oil: from environmental villain to climate heroScience

Palm oil: from environmental villain to climate hero

By Eng-Seng Chan and Wail Gourich, Monash University Malaysia | 360info The Malaysian palm oil industry is making notable progress in addressing climate change and…
SourceSourceAugust 11, 2024 Full article