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Linganaboyinacherla, nestled in the Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Krishna River basin. Located at approximately 16.3961° N, 81.6598° E, the town’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Deccan Plateau, with an average elevation of around 130 meters. This low-lying topography, while facilitating agriculture, can also contribute to the stagnation of pollutants, particularly during periods of low wind speed. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – primarily rice and groundnut cultivation – interspersed with scrubland and occasional rocky outcrops. The proximity to the Krishna River, though providing a vital water source, can also influence local air quality; moisture from the river can trap particulate matter, especially during cooler months. Linganaboyinacherla sits within a gradual urban–rural gradient, transitioning from the more densely populated areas of Guntur and Vijayawada to the sparsely populated rural hinterland. While not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, the town’s agricultural activities, including the use of fertilizers and pesticides, and the potential for biomass burning during harvest seasons, contribute to localized air pollution. The relatively flat terrain and limited natural barriers mean that pollutants originating from nearby regions can readily impact Linganaboyinacherla’s air quality, making it susceptible to regional pollution events. The town’s small size and primarily agrarian economy mean that industrial sources are less significant than agricultural practices and transportation-related emissions.

Linganaboyinacherla experiences a tropical wet-dry climate, significantly influencing its air quality throughout the year. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, is characterized by high temperatures and minimal rainfall. This period often sees a build-up of pollutants due to reduced precipitation to wash them away and increased biomass burning from agricultural residue. Temperature inversions, common during these months, trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the situation. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief with frequent rainfall, which naturally cleanses the air. However, the monsoon also introduces moisture, which can trap particulate matter and create localized fog, particularly in the mornings, potentially reducing visibility and impacting air quality. October and November mark a transitional period, with decreasing temperatures and gradually increasing humidity. While rainfall decreases compared to the monsoon, it’s still sufficient to mitigate some pollution. The winter months, December to February, are generally the most challenging for air quality. Cold temperatures lead to increased use of biomass for heating, contributing to particulate matter pollution. Fog, frequently occurring during these months, further traps pollutants, creating stagnant air conditions. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season and winter months, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution times, typically early mornings. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable during these periods. Agricultural workers should be particularly mindful of pesticide exposure during the pre-monsoon season.