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Kohīr, a small town in the Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, India, sits at coordinates 17.6000°N, 77.7167°E. The terrain is largely flat, characteristic of the Krishna Delta region, with an elevation hovering around 10 meters above sea level. This low-lying position significantly influences air quality, as temperature inversions are common, trapping pollutants near the ground. Kohīr is situated inland, approximately 25 kilometers from the Bay of Bengal, meaning direct marine influences on wind patterns are moderated by the intervening landmass. The surrounding landscape is dominated by intensely cultivated agricultural land, primarily paddy fields, with pockets of rural settlements. While not a major industrial hub itself, Kohīr is within reach of larger industrial areas along the coast, particularly around Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam, contributing to regional background pollution. The urban-rural gradient is sharp; Kohīr represents a transition point between densely populated agricultural zones and more sparsely inhabited rural areas. Dust from agricultural activities, particularly during harvesting and land preparation, is a significant local source of particulate matter. The Krishna River, while not immediately adjacent, plays a role in local humidity and potential for stagnant air conditions. The town’s relatively small size means pollution sources are concentrated, potentially leading to localised hotspots.

Kohīr experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, from November to May, sees consistently poorer air quality. Lower humidity and stagnant winds allow pollutants from agricultural burning (post-harvest in January/February) and local traffic to accumulate. February and March are typically the worst months, with dust storms exacerbating particulate matter levels. The pre-monsoon period (April-May) brings rising temperatures and increased convective activity, offering brief periods of improved dispersion, but also potential for localised fires. The southwest monsoon arrives in June, bringing significant rainfall and a dramatic improvement in air quality. The monsoon washes away accumulated pollutants and increases humidity, suppressing dust. However, increased cloud cover can also lead to temperature inversions. September and October, the post-monsoon period, see a gradual deterioration as rainfall decreases and agricultural activities resume. Fog is common during cooler months, trapping pollutants. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly February-March. During the monsoon, while air is cleaner, humidity can trigger respiratory issues. Monitoring local weather patterns is crucial for informed decisions.