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Hudli, a small town in Karnataka, India, rests at coordinates 15.8800°N, 74.5600°E. Situated within the Western Ghats foothills, the terrain is characterised by undulating hills and fertile valleys. The town’s elevation, though not extreme, contributes to localised weather patterns and influences pollutant dispersion. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with rice paddies and spice plantations dominating the rural areas immediately bordering Hudli. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, introduces potential sources of particulate matter through biomass burning for land preparation and crop residue disposal. The Kali River flows relatively close by, influencing humidity levels and potentially trapping pollutants during temperature inversions. While Hudli itself isn’t a major industrial hub, its proximity to larger industrial areas in North Kanara district means it can experience transboundary pollution. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; the town centre is densely populated, while the periphery quickly transitions into agricultural land. This gradient affects air quality, with higher concentrations of pollutants typically found in the town centre due to vehicular emissions and localised fuel burning for cooking and small-scale industries. The town’s position within a valley can exacerbate pollution build-up, limiting natural ventilation.

Hudli experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influenced by the Southwest Monsoon. Air quality generally improves dramatically during the monsoon months (June-September) as rainfall effectively washes away particulate matter and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, high humidity can also foster mould growth, impacting respiratory health. The post-monsoon period (October-November) sees a gradual deterioration in air quality as agricultural burning increases for the next planting season. This is a period of moderate pollution. The dry season (December-May) presents the most challenging air quality conditions. January and February are often marked by cooler temperatures and increased temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. March to May witness rising temperatures and drier conditions, leading to increased dust and the potential for wildfires, further degrading air quality. During these months, sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity, particularly during peak hours. The prevailing winds during the dry season can also carry pollutants from nearby agricultural areas and industrial zones. Monitoring wind direction is crucial for understanding pollution sources.