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Uppāda, nestled on the eastern coast of Andhra Pradesh, India (17.0833° N, 82.3333° E), presents a unique geographic profile significantly influencing its air quality. Situated near the Bay of Bengal, the city’s coastal location introduces a maritime influence, often moderating temperatures but also contributing to humidity and potential for sea salt aerosol deposition. The surrounding landscape is characterized by a gradual transition from sandy coastal plains to the undulating terrain of the Deccan Plateau. This relatively low-lying area, with an average elevation of around 10 meters, limits vertical mixing of pollutants, potentially trapping them closer to the ground. Uppāda’s proximity to the industrial belt of Kakinada, approximately 15 kilometers to the north, is a critical factor. This zone houses various industries, including fisheries, processing plants, and smaller manufacturing units, which can contribute to localized emissions. To the west, agricultural lands dominate, with rice cultivation being a primary activity. While agriculture itself can generate particulate matter through tilling and burning, the use of fertilizers and pesticides introduces other potential air pollutants. The urban–rural gradient around Uppāda is relatively smooth, with smaller villages and agricultural fields blending into the urban fabric. The prevailing winds, generally from the northeast during the cooler months and shifting to the southwest during the monsoon, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants, impacting air quality across the city and its immediate surroundings. The coastal breeze also influences the transport of pollutants from nearby industrial areas.

Uppāda’s air quality exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s tropical climate and monsoon cycle. The dry season, spanning roughly from March to May, typically sees a gradual increase in pollution levels. With reduced rainfall and lower humidity, dust and particulate matter from construction activities and agricultural practices become more prevalent. Temperature inversions, common during these months, trap pollutants near the surface, exacerbating the situation. The summer heat also encourages increased vehicular traffic, further contributing to emissions. The onset of the southwest monsoon (June to September) brings a significant shift. Heavy rainfall effectively ‘washes’ pollutants from the atmosphere, leading to a noticeable improvement in air quality. However, the monsoon season can also introduce localized pollution from waterlogged areas and increased biomass burning in surrounding agricultural lands. The post-monsoon period (October to November) often sees a return to slightly elevated pollution levels as humidity decreases and winds become calmer. Winter months (December to February) are characterized by cooler temperatures and frequently foggy conditions. The fog traps pollutants, reducing visibility and potentially increasing exposure, particularly for vulnerable populations. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season and foggy winter months, limiting outdoor exertion and considering the use of air purifiers indoors. During the monsoon, while overall air quality improves, vigilance regarding localized biomass burning is advised.