Mārathalli, nestled within the burgeoning urban sprawl of Bengaluru, Karnataka, occupies a strategically important location on the city's southeastern periphery. Situated at approximately 12.15°N latitude and 77.10°E longitude, the area’s geography is characterized by a gently undulating terrain, part of the Deccan Plateau’s broader landscape. The elevation averages around 900 meters (2,953 feet) above sea level, contributing to a relatively cool climate compared to lower-lying regions of India. The surrounding landscape is a mix of developing residential areas, pockets of agricultural land, and increasingly, light industrial zones. Bengaluru’s extensive green spaces, though diminishing, still exert a moderating influence on local air quality. The city’s proximity to the Bellandur Lake and Varthur Lake, while providing some hydrological benefits, also presents challenges due to historical pollution issues impacting the surrounding air. The urban–rural gradient shifts rapidly in Mārathalli; moving just a few kilometers outwards reveals agricultural fields and smaller villages, influencing prevailing wind patterns and the transport of pollutants. The area’s position along major arterial roads connecting Bengaluru to other regions concentrates vehicular traffic, a significant contributor to localized air pollution. The region’s geology, primarily consisting of granite bedrock, influences soil composition and dust generation, further impacting air quality, particularly during drier periods. The rapid urbanization and construction activities in and around Mārathalli exacerbate these challenges, creating a complex interplay of geographical factors affecting the local atmosphere.

Mārathalli’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s tropical climate. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, witnesses a noticeable increase in pollution levels. High temperatures and minimal rainfall create stable atmospheric conditions, often leading to temperature inversions where cooler air becomes trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, preventing pollutants from dispersing effectively. This period is characterized by stagnant air and increased concentrations of particulate matter and gaseous pollutants from vehicular emissions and construction activities. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief as heavy rainfall washes away pollutants and strong winds disperse them. However, the onset of the monsoon can initially see a spike in pollutants due to dust stirred up by strong winds. October and November mark a transitional period with gradually decreasing temperatures and rainfall, leading to a slight improvement in air quality. Winter months (December and January) are generally the most pleasant, with cooler temperatures and relatively lower pollution levels, although fog can occasionally trap pollutants near ground level. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution hours. Maintaining indoor air quality through air purifiers and ventilation is also advisable. The post-monsoon period can also present challenges due to agricultural burning in surrounding areas, so awareness of prevailing wind directions is crucial.