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Hissāramuruvani, nestled in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Deccan Plateau. Located at approximately 15.77°N latitude and 77.41°E longitude, the town’s elevation of around 450 meters above sea level contributes to a generally stable atmospheric layer, though it can also exacerbate temperature inversions under specific conditions. The surrounding landscape is characterized by undulating terrain, transitioning from rocky outcrops to agricultural plains. The town sits within a predominantly rural setting, exhibiting a gradual urban–rural gradient as one moves outwards. While not directly adjacent to major rivers, Hissāramuruvani benefits from proximity to the Tungabhadra River basin, influencing regional humidity and rainfall patterns. The area is primarily agricultural, with significant cultivation of groundnuts, cotton, and pulses, which can contribute to particulate matter through agricultural burning practices, particularly during harvest seasons. Further afield, the industrial belt around Kurnool, though not immediately bordering Hissāramuruvani, can influence regional air quality through the transport of pollutants. The town’s relatively small size (population 13,189) means that local emissions from vehicular traffic and domestic sources are the primary contributors to air pollution, though regional factors play a crucial role in dispersion and overall air quality. The plateau’s topography, with its limited natural ventilation, can trap pollutants, especially during periods of stagnant air.

Hissāramuruvani experiences a tropical wet-dry climate, significantly impacting its air quality throughout the year. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, is often characterized by elevated particulate matter concentrations. Reduced rainfall and increased temperatures lead to drier conditions, promoting dust resuspension from agricultural fields and construction sites. Temperature inversions, common during these months, trap pollutants near the ground, worsening air quality. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief as rainfall washes away pollutants and increased wind speeds facilitate dispersion. However, the monsoon also introduces humidity, which can exacerbate respiratory issues for sensitive individuals. October and November mark a transitional period, with decreasing rainfall and gradually increasing temperatures. Agricultural burning after the harvest season can significantly contribute to particulate pollution during this time. Winter months (December to February) are generally cooler, with occasional fog formation. Fog traps pollutants, reducing visibility and increasing exposure to airborne particles. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during periods of fog and stagnant air, particularly in the dry season. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable. The agricultural cycle dictates much of the pollution pattern, with harvest-related burning posing a significant challenge. Awareness campaigns promoting sustainable agricultural practices are crucial for mitigating air pollution’s impact.