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Kautālam, nestled in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Deccan Plateau. Located at approximately 15.7711° N latitude and 77.1239° E longitude, the town’s elevation averages around 450 meters above sea level, contributing to a relatively stable atmospheric layer. The surrounding landscape is characterized by undulating terrain, transitioning from rocky outcrops to pockets of agricultural land primarily cultivating groundnut, cotton, and pulses. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, introduces potential sources of particulate matter, particularly during harvest seasons when burning of crop residue can occur. Kautālam sits on the edge of a gradual urban-rural gradient; while it maintains a distinctly rural character, it’s within reach of larger industrial zones further north towards Kurnool city, which can influence regional air quality. The Tungabhadra River, though not directly adjacent, flows within a reasonable distance, potentially influencing local humidity and dispersion patterns. The plateau’s topography, combined with the prevailing wind patterns, can sometimes lead to localized air stagnation, especially during periods of calm weather. The climate is semi-arid, with hot summers and relatively mild winters, impacting the behaviour of pollutants. The town’s small size (population 11,670) means that localized emissions from residential sources and limited vehicular traffic are the primary contributors to air quality concerns, though regional influences are increasingly important.

Kautālam’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by the interplay of meteorological factors and local activities. The pre-monsoon season (March-May) typically witnesses the poorest air quality. High temperatures and minimal rainfall create stable atmospheric conditions, often leading to temperature inversions where cooler air becomes trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, preventing pollutants from dispersing. Agricultural burning, prevalent during this period as farmers prepare fields for the monsoon, significantly exacerbates the problem. The monsoon season (June-September) brings relief, with frequent rainfall washing away particulate matter and strong winds dispersing pollutants. Humidity increases, which can also affect the chemical composition of airborne particles. Post-monsoon (October-November) sees a gradual return to drier conditions, with a slight increase in particulate matter as agricultural activity resumes. Winter months (December-February) are generally the most pleasant, with cooler temperatures and occasional wind gusts aiding in pollutant dispersion. However, fog, particularly in December and January, can trap pollutants near the ground, creating localized pockets of poor air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon season and on foggy winter mornings. Outdoor activities are best planned for the monsoon or post-monsoon periods, avoiding peak agricultural burning times. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can also provide some protection.