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Kota, nestled within the state of Andhra Pradesh, India, at coordinates 14.0333°N, 80.0500°E, is a small urban centre with a population of approximately 16,237. The town’s geography is characterised by relatively flat terrain, typical of the Krishna River delta region where it’s situated. This low-lying landscape, close to the Bay of Bengal, influences local climate patterns and air circulation. Kota isn’t a major industrial hub, but its surrounding areas feature significant agricultural activity, primarily rice cultivation, which contributes to seasonal biomass burning. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; the town itself is compact, quickly giving way to agricultural fields and smaller villages. The proximity to the Krishna River provides a source of irrigation but also contributes to humidity, potentially trapping pollutants. While not directly adjacent to large-scale industrial belts, regional industrial activity in nearby cities like Vijayawada can contribute to long-range transport of pollutants. The local topography offers limited natural dispersion of air pollutants, making the town susceptible to localised pollution build-up, particularly during calmer weather conditions. Understanding this interplay between agriculture, water bodies, and limited topographical relief is crucial for assessing and mitigating air quality challenges in Kota.

Kota’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the monsoon and post-monsoon periods. The pre-monsoon months (March to May) witness rising temperatures and dry conditions, leading to increased dust suspension from agricultural lands and roadways, impacting respirable particulate matter. This is often the period of poorest air quality. The arrival of the southwest monsoon in June brings relief, with rainfall effectively washing away pollutants and improving air quality significantly. However, increased humidity can also foster mould growth, potentially affecting respiratory health. Post-monsoon (October-November) sees a resurgence of pollution as agricultural residue burning increases after the harvest, coinciding with calmer winds and temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground. Winter months (December-February) are generally characterised by stable atmospheric conditions and cooler temperatures, exacerbating pollution from household combustion sources like wood and biomass stoves. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods. Monitoring wind patterns and avoiding peak burning times are crucial for protecting health.