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Tāndūr, nestled in the Vikarabad district of Andhra Pradesh, India, occupies a unique geographic position within the Deccan Plateau. Located at 17.2576°N, 77.5875°E, the city sits approximately 60 kilometers southwest of Hyderabad. The terrain is characterised by undulating hills and rocky outcrops, typical of the region’s ancient geological formations. The city’s elevation, around 520 meters, influences local wind patterns and temperature variations. Tāndūr is not directly adjacent to a major body of water, though smaller streams and tanks provide localised water sources. Surrounding the city is a mix of agricultural land, primarily cultivating crops like rice and cotton, and increasingly, areas experiencing industrial development linked to cement production and stone crushing. This industrial activity, combined with agricultural practices, contributes significantly to the local air quality challenges. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with a noticeable shift in air quality as one moves away from the city centre towards the surrounding rural areas. Dust from unpaved roads and construction activities further exacerbates particulate matter levels, particularly during drier months. The city’s location within a valley can also trap pollutants, hindering dispersion.

Tāndūr experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, heavily influencing its air quality. The post-monsoon period (October-November) often sees a temporary improvement as rainfall washes away accumulated pollutants, but this is short-lived. The dry season (December-May) is when air quality deteriorates most significantly. Lower humidity and stagnant air, coupled with increased dust from construction and agricultural activities, lead to higher concentrations of particulate matter. January and February are typically the worst months. Temperature inversions, common during cooler mornings, trap pollutants near the ground. The onset of the monsoon (June-September) brings substantial relief, with heavy rainfall effectively cleansing the atmosphere. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of secondary pollutants. During the monsoon, localised flooding can disrupt traffic and increase vehicle emissions as vehicles idle in congestion. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during the dry season, particularly in January and February. Wearing masks and avoiding strenuous activity during peak pollution times are recommended. Monitoring weather forecasts for wind conditions is also advisable.