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Puttūr, nestled in Andhra Pradesh, India (13.4500°N, 79.5500°E), occupies a relatively low-lying position within the broader Nellore district. The city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the coastal plains, though gentle undulations are present as it transitions inland. Situated approximately 25km from the Bay of Bengal, Puttūr experiences a maritime influence, though it isn’t directly on the coast. This proximity contributes to high humidity levels and moderates temperature extremes. The surrounding landscape is a mix of agricultural land – primarily paddy fields and sugarcane plantations – and increasingly, small-scale industrial activity focused on food processing and brick manufacturing. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp; Puttūr itself is a concentrated urban centre, quickly giving way to agricultural villages and sparsely populated areas. This juxtaposition is crucial for air quality, as agricultural practices (burning of crop residue) and industrial emissions contribute to local pollution. The lack of significant topographical features like hills or valleys limits natural dispersion of pollutants, meaning emissions tend to accumulate, particularly during calm weather conditions. The city’s position within a regional transport corridor also means it experiences traffic-related pollution. Understanding this geographic context is vital for addressing Puttūr’s air quality challenges.

Puttūr’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the monsoon and prevailing winds. The post-monsoon period, from October to December, often sees the poorest air quality. The receding monsoon winds are weak, leading to stagnant air and trapping pollutants from local sources like brick kilns and agricultural burning. Temperature inversions are common during these cooler months, exacerbating the problem. January to March brings relatively cleaner air, with stronger winds dispersing pollutants, though dust from agricultural activities can still be an issue. The pre-monsoon months of April and May are characterized by rising temperatures and dry conditions, leading to increased dust and potential for localized fires, impacting air quality. The southwest monsoon, arriving in June and lasting through September, generally offers the best air quality. Heavy rainfall effectively washes away pollutants, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, increased traffic during the monsoon can offset some of these benefits. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should avoid prolonged outdoor activity during October-December and take precautions during April-May. Monitoring wind patterns and avoiding peak traffic hours are advisable throughout the year.