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Narasāpuram, nestled in the Palnadu district of Andhra Pradesh, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Krishna River delta. Located at approximately 17.1016° N latitude and 81.0765° E longitude, the town’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the fertile alluvial plains formed by the Krishna and its tributaries. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – primarily rice and pulses – interspersed with pockets of scrubland and occasional groves of mango and tamarind trees. Narasāpuram’s proximity to the Krishna River, though providing a vital water source, also influences local air quality dynamics. The river’s presence can contribute to humidity and fog formation, particularly during cooler months, which can trap pollutants. The urban–rural gradient around Narasāpuram is relatively gradual; the town itself is a small, primarily agricultural market town, with rural agricultural practices dominating the immediate periphery. Further afield, the region connects to larger industrial belts concentrated around Vijayawada, approximately 60 kilometers to the northeast. While Narasāpuram itself lacks major heavy industries, agricultural burning during post-harvest seasons and vehicular emissions from market activity contribute to localized air pollution. The elevation is low, averaging around 25 meters above sea level, minimizing natural dispersion of pollutants and potentially exacerbating ground-level concentrations. The flat topography and prevailing wind patterns, often influenced by regional weather systems, play a crucial role in determining the distribution of airborne particulate matter.

Narasāpuram’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s tropical climate and monsoon cycles. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, often witnesses a noticeable increase in particulate matter. Agricultural burning, a common practice after the harvest of rabi crops (winter crops), releases significant quantities of smoke and ash into the atmosphere. This is compounded by warmer temperatures, which can lead to increased ozone formation, a secondary pollutant. The months of April and May are generally the most challenging for air quality. The onset of the monsoon season (June to September) brings a welcome respite, as rainfall effectively washes away particulate matter and reduces agricultural burning. However, periods of prolonged rainfall can also lead to increased humidity and fog, which, while cleansing, can temporarily trap pollutants near the ground. The post-monsoon season (October to November) can see a resurgence of agricultural burning as farmers prepare fields for the rabi crop, again impacting air quality. Winter months (December to February) are characterized by cooler temperatures and frequent fog, particularly in the mornings. While temperatures are lower, the fog can trap pollutants, leading to localized episodes of poor air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit prolonged outdoor exposure during agricultural burning periods and when fog is prevalent. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers can also be beneficial during these times.