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Jiyyammavalasa, nestled in the Alluri Sitharama Raju district of Andhra Pradesh, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Eastern Ghats. Located at approximately 18.8186° N latitude and 83.5797° E longitude, the town’s elevation contributes to its microclimate and influences air circulation patterns. The surrounding landscape is characterized by undulating hills and valleys, typical of the Eastern Ghats, transitioning from dense tropical forests to agricultural lands as the urban gradient extends outwards. The region’s terrain, while providing scenic beauty, can also trap pollutants, particularly during periods of low wind speed. Jiyyammavalasa’s proximity to the Gosthani River, a vital water source for the region, is crucial for local ecosystems but also presents potential concerns regarding industrial discharge impacting air quality through waterborne pollutants. While not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, the town’s location within a developing agricultural zone means that seasonal agricultural practices, including burning of crop residue, can contribute to localized air pollution episodes. The urban-rural gradient around Jiyyammavalasa is relatively gradual, with small villages and agricultural fields blending seamlessly into the town’s periphery, influencing the dispersal of pollutants and the overall air quality profile. The prevailing winds, generally from the east, play a key role in transporting pollutants, and the topography can create localized areas of stagnant air, exacerbating pollution concentrations. Understanding these geographic factors is essential for effective air quality management strategies.

Jiyyammavalasa experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, significantly impacting its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, often witnesses a noticeable increase in particulate matter. This is largely attributed to increased agricultural activity, including the burning of crop residue after harvests, a common practice in the region. The lack of rainfall during this period allows these pollutants to persist, and temperature inversions, where cooler air is trapped beneath warmer air, can further exacerbate the situation by preventing vertical mixing and trapping pollutants near the ground. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief with frequent rainfall, effectively washing away pollutants and significantly improving air quality. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased humidity, which can affect respiratory health for some individuals. The transitional months of October and November see a gradual decrease in rainfall and a potential rise in pollutants as agricultural burning resumes. Fog, common during the cooler months (December-February), can also trap pollutants, reducing visibility and impacting air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season and periods of fog, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution times. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers can also provide some protection. The monsoon months generally offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activities, although vigilance regarding waterborne illnesses remains important.