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Potukonda, a small town in Andhra Pradesh, India, rests at coordinates 17.2708°N, 81.7540°E, and is home to approximately 11,169 residents. Geographically, the area is characterised by relatively flat terrain typical of the Krishna Delta region, though subtle undulations are present. The town’s elevation is low, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. Potukonda is situated inland, approximately 30km from the Bay of Bengal, meaning direct marine influences on air quality are lessened, but humidity remains high, particularly during monsoon seasons. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, dominated by rice paddies and other crops, with smaller pockets of rural settlements. While not a major industrial hub itself, Potukonda’s proximity to larger industrial areas along the coast and within the Visakhapatnam region introduces the potential for long-range pollutant transport. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; the town represents a concentrated point of activity within a largely agrarian setting. This concentration, coupled with local sources like vehicular traffic and biomass burning for cooking, contributes to localised air quality concerns. Dust from agricultural activities and unpaved roads also plays a significant role, especially during drier periods. The Krishna River’s influence, though indirect, affects local microclimates and humidity levels, impacting pollutant behaviour.

Potukonda experiences a tropical climate, with air quality fluctuating significantly between the wet and dry seasons. The dry season, roughly from November to May, sees the poorest air quality. Lower humidity and stagnant air masses allow pollutants from agricultural burning (post-harvest in early winter) and local traffic to accumulate. January and February are typically the most challenging months, with temperature inversions trapping pollutants near the ground. The pre-monsoon months of April and May bring increased dust storms, exacerbating particulate matter levels. The arrival of the southwest monsoon in June brings a dramatic improvement. Heavy rainfall effectively washes away pollutants, and increased wind speeds aid dispersion. However, high humidity can also promote the formation of secondary pollutants. September and October, post-monsoon, see a gradual deterioration as rainfall decreases and agricultural activities resume. Fog formation during cooler mornings in December can trap pollutants, creating localised poor air quality episodes. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly January-May. Wearing masks and using air purifiers indoors are recommended. During the monsoon, while overall air quality is better, mould growth can trigger respiratory issues.