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Pūlla, a small town in Andhra Pradesh, India, rests at coordinates 16.8094°N, 81.3238°E, within the Krishna Delta region. Its geography is defined by the fertile alluvial plains formed by the Krishna River, creating a relatively flat terrain with an elevation generally below 25 meters. This proximity to the Krishna River, a vital water source and transportation artery, influences local humidity and temperature. Pūlla is surrounded by extensive agricultural lands, primarily paddy fields, and increasingly, aquaculture ponds. The urban-rural gradient is sharp; Pūlla itself is a concentrated settlement amidst a largely agrarian landscape. While not a major industrial hub, the broader Krishna district experiences industrial activity related to food processing, rice milling, and fisheries, contributing to localised pollution sources. The town’s location within a river delta means it’s susceptible to flooding during heavy monsoon rains, which can redistribute pollutants. The prevailing winds, influenced by the Bay of Bengal, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants depending on the season. The flat terrain offers limited natural dispersion, potentially exacerbating air quality issues when meteorological conditions are unfavourable. The surrounding landscape, dominated by agricultural practices, introduces significant particulate matter from crop residue burning and fertilizer application.

Pūlla’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern. The post-monsoon period, from October to February, generally offers the cleanest air. Cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall help settle dust and pollutants. However, this is also when temperature inversions can occur, trapping pollutants near the ground, particularly in the early mornings. The pre-monsoon months, March to May, witness a significant deterioration in air quality. Rising temperatures and dry winds stir up dust from agricultural fields and unpaved roads. Crop residue burning, a common practice to clear fields for the next planting season, adds substantially to particulate matter levels. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings temporary relief through rainfall, washing away pollutants. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of secondary pollutants. October sees a transition period, with lingering moisture and the start of post-harvest burning. For those with respiratory sensitivities, avoiding outdoor activity during the pre-monsoon months is advisable. Children and the elderly should be particularly cautious during periods of high dust and smoke. Monitoring local weather patterns and agricultural practices is key to understanding and mitigating exposure risks. The monsoon, while offering some cleansing, can also bring mould spores, impacting allergy sufferers.