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Anjuna, a vibrant coastal village in North Goa, India, occupies a unique geographic position that significantly influences its air quality. Situated at 15.5833°N, 73.7333°E, the terrain is characterised by gently sloping hills descending towards the Arabian Sea. The elevation is relatively low, averaging around 80-100 meters above sea level, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion. Anjuna’s immediate surroundings are a mix of coconut groves, cashew plantations, and increasingly, tourist infrastructure. The proximity to the coast means the prevailing winds are often south-westerly during the monsoon and north-easterly in the drier months, impacting pollutant transport. While Anjuna itself isn’t heavily industrialised, the broader Goa region has pockets of industrial activity, particularly around Vasco da Gama, and agricultural practices like rice cultivation contribute to seasonal biomass burning. The urban-rural gradient is becoming blurred as tourism expands, leading to increased vehicle traffic and construction dust. This rapid development, coupled with the coastal location and limited natural ventilation, creates conditions conducive to localised air pollution. The dense vegetation offers some natural filtration, but its capacity is being challenged by the pace of change. The village’s position within a tropical climate also means high humidity and temperature can exacerbate pollutant concentrations.

Anjuna’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the monsoon and inter-monsoon periods. The pre-monsoon months (March-May) typically see the poorest air quality. Rising temperatures create stable atmospheric conditions, trapping pollutants from vehicle emissions, construction, and agricultural burning. The north-easterly winds can carry dust from inland areas. The arrival of the monsoon (June-September) brings a dramatic improvement. Heavy rainfall effectively washes away particulate matter, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, increased cloud cover can lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants closer to the ground, particularly in localised areas. Post-monsoon (October-November) sees a gradual deterioration as agricultural activities resume, including stubble burning, and tourist numbers increase. The winds shift, becoming south-westerly, and the drier air allows pollutants to linger. December-February offers the most favourable conditions, with cooler temperatures, consistent breezes, and lower agricultural activity. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should be particularly cautious during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods. Avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during peak pollution times and using appropriate respiratory protection are recommended.