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Parasurāmpūr, nestled in the Tumkur district of Karnataka, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Deccan Plateau. Located at approximately 14.26° N latitude and 76.88° E longitude, the town’s terrain is predominantly undulating, characteristic of the plateau’s landscape. Its elevation, around 850 meters above sea level, contributes to a generally cooler climate compared to coastal regions of Karnataka, but also influences atmospheric stability and potential for temperature inversions. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – primarily sugarcane, rice, and pulses – interspersed with rocky outcrops and scrubland. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to seasonal particulate matter pollution, particularly during harvest periods when burning of crop residue is practiced. The town sits on the edge of an urban–rural gradient, transitioning from the denser urban fabric of Tumkur city to the more dispersed rural settlements of the surrounding countryside. While not directly adjacent to a major river, Parasurāmpūr benefits from groundwater resources, impacting local irrigation practices. The proximity to industrial zones in Tumkur, though not immediately bordering the town, introduces a potential source of industrial pollutants that can be transported by prevailing winds. The plateau’s topography, combined with the agricultural and industrial influences, creates a complex interplay of factors affecting local air quality, making it susceptible to both localized and regional pollution events.

Parasurāmpūr experiences a tropical wet-dry climate, significantly impacting its air quality throughout the year. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, is often characterized by elevated particulate matter concentrations. Reduced rainfall and increased temperatures lead to drier atmospheric conditions, promoting dust resuspension from agricultural lands and construction sites. Temperature inversions, common during these months, trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the problem. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief with frequent rainfall, effectively scrubbing the atmosphere and lowering pollutant levels. However, the onset of the monsoon can initially be accompanied by increased humidity and fog, which can temporarily reduce visibility and trap pollutants. October and November represent a transitional period, with decreasing rainfall and gradually increasing temperatures, potentially leading to a resurgence of particulate matter. December and January are generally cooler and drier, with relatively better air quality compared to the peak of the dry season, although occasional fog events can still impact visibility. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution periods. Agricultural workers should be particularly mindful of exposure to smoke from crop residue burning. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers can also provide some protection.