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Byādgi, nestled in the Koppal district of Karnataka, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Deccan Plateau. Its coordinates (14.6733° N, 75.4868° E) place it within a region characterized by undulating terrain, transitioning from rocky outcrops to fertile agricultural lands. The town sits at an elevation of approximately 575 meters (1886 feet) above sea level, influencing local weather patterns and potentially trapping pollutants under certain atmospheric conditions. Byādgi’s surrounding landscape is predominantly rural, dominated by agricultural fields cultivating crops like jowar, maize, and groundnut, interspersed with scrubland and scattered rocky hills. This proximity to intensive agricultural practices introduces potential sources of particulate matter, particularly during harvesting and tillage seasons, as well as ammonia emissions from fertilizer use. The town exhibits a clear urban–rural gradient, with denser built-up areas concentrated around the town center gradually thinning out into agricultural fields. While Byādgi lacks immediate proximity to major rivers or lakes, the Tungabhadra River flows relatively nearby, impacting regional hydrology and potentially influencing local humidity levels. The absence of large-scale industrial belts directly adjacent to Byādgi is a mitigating factor, however, regional industrial activity in areas like Bellary, approximately 80 kilometers away, can contribute to transboundary pollution events. The plateau’s topography, combined with the prevailing wind patterns, can lead to localized air quality challenges, particularly during periods of stagnant air.

Byādgi’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry seasonal cycle, profoundly impacting its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, is often characterized by elevated particulate matter concentrations. This is due to a combination of factors: increased dust generation from agricultural activities like plowing and harvesting, lower relative humidity which allows dust particles to remain suspended in the air for longer periods, and frequent temperature inversions, particularly during the pre-monsoon period. These inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, exacerbating air quality issues. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief as rainfall washes away pollutants and increased wind speeds disperse them. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased soil erosion and subsequent dust events. The post-monsoon period (October-November) can see a resurgence of dust and agricultural emissions as fields are prepared for the next planting season. December and January are generally cooler months, with occasional fog formation which can trap pollutants and reduce visibility. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during the hottest months of April and May, and avoid prolonged outdoor exertion. During the monsoon, while overall air quality improves, be mindful of potential flooding and associated mold growth, which can impact indoor air quality. The agricultural cycle significantly influences air quality, making periods around planting and harvesting particularly challenging. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can be beneficial, especially during peak pollution periods.