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Krosūru, nestled in the Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Krishna River delta. Its coordinates (16.5500° N, 80.1331° E) place it within a relatively flat, alluvial plain, characteristic of the deltaic region. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, a patchwork of rice paddies, cotton fields, and pulses, extending outwards in a gradual urban-rural gradient. The Krishna River, though not immediately adjacent to the town itself, exerts a considerable influence on the regional climate and hydrology, contributing to high humidity levels. Elevation is minimal, rarely exceeding 30 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate the trapping of pollutants, particularly during periods of atmospheric stability. Krosūru’s proximity to the industrial belt of Guntur, approximately 60 kilometers to the north, is a crucial factor impacting air quality. This belt houses various industries, including food processing, pharmaceuticals, and chemical manufacturing, which can contribute to regional pollution transport. The town’s relatively small size (population 11,549) means that local emissions from vehicular traffic and smaller-scale industries, while not overwhelming, still contribute to the overall air quality profile. The flat terrain and prevailing wind patterns often lead to a stagnation of pollutants, especially during the cooler months, making the town vulnerable to localized air quality degradation. The fertile delta soil, while supporting agriculture, can also contribute to dust pollution during dry periods.

Krosūru’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s tropical climate and the influence of the South Indian monsoon. The pre-monsoon season (March-May) typically witnesses the poorest air quality. High temperatures and minimal rainfall create stable atmospheric conditions, frequently leading to temperature inversions where cooler air becomes trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, preventing pollutants from dispersing. This period is characterized by increased dust from agricultural activities, combined with emissions from nearby industrial zones, resulting in a noticeable decline in air quality. The monsoon season (June-September) brings a welcome respite, with frequent rainfall effectively washing away pollutants and strong winds dispersing any remaining contaminants. This is generally the most favourable time for outdoor activities. Post-monsoon (October-November) sees a gradual return to drier conditions, but the intensity of the inversion layer is typically less pronounced than in the pre-monsoon period. The winter months (December-February) are often characterized by cooler temperatures and increased fog, which can trap pollutants near the ground, particularly in the mornings. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and winter months, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure and considering the use of air purifiers indoors. Agricultural workers should prioritize protective measures during the dry season to mitigate dust inhalation. The cyclical nature of monsoon rains provides a natural cleansing effect, but sustained industrial activity and agricultural practices require ongoing monitoring and mitigation strategies.