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Guruvarājukuppam, a small town in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, India, is situated at coordinates 13.1125°N, 79.5472°E. The town’s geography is characterised by relatively flat terrain typical of the Coromandel Coast, though subtle undulations are present. It lies inland, approximately 20km from the Bay of Bengal, influencing humidity levels but offering some buffering from direct coastal winds. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive paddy fields and cultivation of groundnuts, sugarcane, and mangoes. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, contributes to seasonal biomass burning, a significant source of particulate matter. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; Guruvarājukuppam serves as a market town for surrounding villages, leading to increased vehicular traffic. While not directly within a major industrial belt, the proximity to industrial areas in nearby towns like Sri City (a Special Economic Zone) introduces the potential for long-range pollutant transport. The town’s elevation is low, increasing susceptibility to temperature inversions, which trap pollutants near the ground. The local soil composition is largely red sandy loam, prone to dust generation during drier periods. Understanding these geographical factors is crucial for assessing and mitigating air quality challenges in Guruvarājukuppam.

Guruvarājukuppam experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, from November to May, sees consistently poorer air quality. Lower humidity and increased wind speeds contribute to dust resuspension from agricultural lands and unpaved roads. January to March are particularly challenging, with stagnant air masses and temperature inversions trapping pollutants. The pre-monsoon months of April and May witness increased biomass burning as farmers clear fields for the next planting season, dramatically increasing particulate matter. The arrival of the southwest monsoon in June brings a temporary respite, with rainfall effectively washing away pollutants. However, increased humidity can also foster fungal growth, impacting respiratory health. September and October, post-monsoon, see a resurgence of dust and localised pollution from agricultural activities. Fog formation during cooler mornings in December and January can exacerbate particulate matter concentrations. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season and periods of biomass burning. Monitoring wind patterns and avoiding peak agricultural burning times are advisable for maintaining respiratory health.