Tirukkoyilūr Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Tirukkoyilūr, nestled in the fertile plains of northern Tamil Nadu, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Kaveri Delta region. Located at approximately 11.9675° N, 79.2056° E, the city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the alluvial plains formed by the Kaveri River and its tributaries. The elevation is relatively low, averaging around 150 meters above sea level, which contributes to a tendency for pollutants to accumulate, particularly during periods of low wind speed. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – predominantly rice paddies and sugarcane plantations – interspersed with smaller villages and pockets of scrubland. This agricultural activity, while vital to the regional economy, can contribute to localized air pollution through the burning of crop residue, especially during the post-harvest season. Tirukkoyilūr is not directly adjacent to any major river, though groundwater resources are plentiful. The urban–rural gradient transitions relatively quickly, with the city acting as a regional market town serving the surrounding agricultural communities. Its proximity to industrial zones in nearby districts, such as Kallakurichi, means that industrial emissions can occasionally impact air quality. The flat topography and prevailing wind patterns, often influenced by the Bay of Bengal, can either disperse or trap pollutants, making the city’s air quality susceptible to regional weather systems and agricultural practices. The lack of significant natural barriers means that pollutants can travel relatively long distances, impacting the city’s air quality beyond local sources.

Tirukkoyilūr experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, significantly influencing its air quality profile. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, often sees a noticeable increase in particulate matter. This is largely attributed to the increased agricultural burning of crop residue following the harvest of the *rabi* crops (winter crops). The lack of rainfall during this period also reduces the natural cleansing effect of precipitation, allowing pollutants to persist. Temperature inversions, common during these months, trap pollutants closer to the ground, exacerbating the issue. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief as rainfall washes away accumulated pollutants and increased wind speeds disperse them. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased humidity, which can affect respiratory health. The post-monsoon season (October-November) can experience periods of fog, particularly in the mornings, which traps pollutants and reduces visibility. December and January are generally cooler and drier, with moderate wind speeds, offering a relatively cleaner air quality period. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak burning periods and when fog is present. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable. The agricultural cycle dictates much of the pollution pattern, making awareness of burning practices crucial for public health.