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Kodumur, nestled in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Deccan Plateau. Located at approximately 15.68°N latitude and 77.78°E longitude, the town sits at an elevation of roughly 350 meters above sea level. The surrounding landscape is characterized by undulating terrain, typical of the plateau, with rocky outcrops and sparsely vegetated hills. While not directly adjacent to a major river, Kodumur benefits from proximity to the Tungabhadra River, approximately 50 kilometers to the north, influencing regional humidity and microclimates. The town’s urban character is that of a developing market town, serving as a hub for the surrounding agricultural communities. The dominant land use in the immediate vicinity is agriculture, primarily rain-fed cultivation of crops like groundnut, jowar, and pulses. Further afield, the landscape transitions into more arid scrubland. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with Kodumur representing a concentrated area of human settlement amidst a predominantly rural backdrop. This proximity to agricultural zones means that seasonal agricultural burning, a common practice for clearing fields, can significantly impact local air quality. The town’s location within the broader industrial belt of Andhra Pradesh, while not directly within a major industrial zone, still experiences some indirect impacts from industrial emissions carried by prevailing winds. Topography contributes to localized air stagnation, particularly during periods of calm weather, exacerbating pollution episodes. The plateau's generally dry climate also limits atmospheric washout of pollutants.

Kodumur’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s tropical climate and monsoon cycles. The dry season, spanning roughly from March to 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 is at its peak during this period, releasing significant quantities of particulate matter and other pollutants. Dust storms, common during the pre-monsoon months, further degrade air quality. The onset of the monsoon season (June to September) brings a welcome respite, as rainfall effectively ‘washes’ pollutants from the atmosphere. Wind speeds also increase, facilitating dispersion. October and November represent a transitional period, with decreasing rainfall and gradually increasing temperatures, potentially leading to a renewed deterioration in air quality. The winter months (December to February) are generally the most pleasant, with cooler temperatures and relatively lower pollution levels, although fog can occasionally trap pollutants near ground level. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution periods. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable. The agricultural community should explore alternative field clearing methods to minimize burning’s impact.