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Lakhsetipet, nestled in the Palnadu district of Andhra Pradesh, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Deccan Plateau. Located at approximately 18.8873° N latitude and 79.2069° E longitude, the town’s terrain is predominantly undulating, characteristic of the plateau’s landscape. The elevation, while modest, contributes to localized microclimates and influences air circulation patterns. Lakhsetipet’s surrounding landscape is a blend of agricultural fields – primarily rice and pulses – and interspersed dry deciduous forests, typical of the region. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to seasonal particulate matter emissions, particularly during harvest periods. The urban–rural gradient transitions relatively quickly, with the town acting as a local service center for the surrounding agricultural communities. It lacks immediate proximity to major rivers or large bodies of water, which would otherwise offer some natural air purification through precipitation and increased humidity. While not directly situated within a major industrial belt, Lakhsetipet’s connectivity to larger regional hubs like Guntur and Vijayawada means it can be affected by pollutants transported via prevailing winds. The plateau’s topography, combined with the relatively low population density, generally promotes some degree of air dispersion, but localized sources like vehicular traffic and agricultural burning can still significantly impact air quality within the town itself. The climate is semi-arid, further influencing atmospheric stability and pollutant behaviour.

Lakhsetipet’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by the region’s tropical climate. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, presents the most challenging period. 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. This inversion prevents the vertical dispersion of pollutants, resulting in elevated concentrations of particulate matter and other gaseous pollutants. Agricultural burning, a common practice for clearing fields after harvest, significantly exacerbates this issue during these months. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief through increased rainfall and stronger winds, effectively flushing out pollutants and improving air quality. October and November mark a transitional period, with decreasing rainfall and gradually increasing temperatures, potentially leading to a resurgence of localized pollution. The winter months (December to February) are generally cooler, but fog formation 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 dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution hours. During the monsoon, while overall air quality improves, heavy rainfall can still lead to localized flooding and associated issues. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is advisable throughout the year, especially during periods of elevated pollution.