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Haliyāl, nestled in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Western Ghats mountain range. Its coordinates (15.3294° N, 74.7633° E) place it at an elevation of approximately 900 meters above sea level, contributing to a relatively cool and humid climate. The surrounding landscape is dominated by dense evergreen forests and undulating hills, characteristic of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot. This proximity to extensive forest cover generally acts as a natural air purifier, absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen. However, the town’s location also presents challenges. Haliyāl sits on the edge of an urban–rural gradient; agricultural zones, particularly areca nut plantations, are prevalent in the surrounding areas. While these plantations contribute to the local economy, agricultural practices, including burning of crop residue, can occasionally introduce particulate matter into the air. The town itself is relatively small, exhibiting a compact urban character with a mix of residential and commercial areas. It’s not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, mitigating some industrial pollution risks. The Kali River flows nearby, offering a degree of moisture and influencing local weather patterns. Topography plays a crucial role; the hills surrounding Haliyāl can trap pollutants, especially during periods of low wind speed, potentially leading to localized air quality issues. The prevailing winds, generally southwesterly during the monsoon, can also carry pollutants from distant sources, impacting air quality.

Haliyāl’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by the region’s tropical monsoon climate. The monsoon season, typically spanning June to September, brings abundant rainfall and strong winds, effectively flushing out accumulated pollutants and generally resulting in the best air quality throughout the year. The high rainfall and frequent wind shifts disperse any locally generated emissions. Conversely, the post-monsoon and winter months (October to February) often see a shift. As rainfall decreases and temperatures drop, the likelihood of temperature inversions increases, particularly in the mornings. These inversions trap cooler air near the ground, preventing pollutants from dispersing vertically. Agricultural burning, though regulated, can also contribute to elevated particulate matter during this period. Fog, common during the winter months, further exacerbates the issue by reducing visibility and trapping pollutants close to the ground. The pre-monsoon season (March to May) is characterized by rising temperatures and decreasing humidity, which can lead to increased dust and pollen levels, potentially affecting respiratory health. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the post-monsoon and winter months, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution hours (early mornings). Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable. The monsoon provides a natural respite, but even then, awareness of potential agricultural emissions remains important.