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Chēmanchēri, a municipality nestled within the Kollam district of Kerala, India, occupies a low-lying coastal plain at approximately 11.4116°N, 75.7350°E. The city’s geography is fundamentally shaped by its proximity to the Arabian Sea, with the Ashtamudi Lake forming a significant inland waterway to its east. This coastal location contributes to high humidity and moderate temperatures year-round. The terrain is largely flat, typical of the Kerala coastal belt, transitioning gradually inland to the Western Ghats foothills. Chēmanchēri isn’t a major industrial hub, but supports a significant fishing industry and local agricultural practices, primarily coconut and cashew cultivation, which contribute to localised biomass burning during harvest seasons. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with dense residential areas concentrated around the town centre and quickly giving way to coconut groves and paddy fields. This proximity to agricultural land, combined with the coastal breeze patterns, influences the dispersion of pollutants. The lack of significant topographical barriers means pollutants can accumulate during periods of calm weather. The city’s location within a tropical climate zone means consistent rainfall, but also periods of stagnant air, impacting air quality. The surrounding landscape, dominated by waterways and vegetation, offers some natural filtration, but is increasingly challenged by population density and waste management practices.

Chēmanchēri experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influenced by the Southwest Monsoon. Air quality generally improves during the monsoon months (June-September) as heavy rainfall effectively washes away particulate matter and suppresses dust. However, increased humidity can also foster mould growth, impacting respiratory health. The post-monsoon season (October-November) sees a gradual increase in pollution as agricultural activities resume, including biomass burning for land preparation. This period can be challenging for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. The dry season (December-February) is typically the period of poorest air quality. Lower rainfall and calmer winds allow pollutants from local sources – vehicle emissions, construction, and household cooking – to accumulate. Temperature inversions, common during cooler mornings, trap pollutants near ground level. March-May, the hottest months, exacerbate the problem with increased photochemical smog formation. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with asthma, should limit outdoor activity during these months. Avoiding peak traffic hours and using well-fitted masks can offer some protection. Monitoring local weather patterns and being aware of agricultural burning schedules is crucial for managing exposure.