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Chengala, nestled in the Kasaragod district of Kerala, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the state’s northernmost reaches. Located at approximately 12.5087° N latitude and 75.0558° E longitude, the town’s terrain is characterized by a gentle slope towards the Arabian Sea, a mere few kilometers to the west. This coastal proximity significantly influences local climate and, consequently, air quality. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of lush agricultural fields – predominantly rice paddies and coconut groves – interspersed with small villages and pockets of dense tropical vegetation. The Western Ghats, a major mountain range, lie to the east, providing a backdrop and influencing prevailing wind patterns. Chengala’s elevation is relatively low, averaging around 20 meters above sea level, minimizing the potential for significant vertical stratification of pollutants. The urban character of Chengala is primarily rural, with a slowly developing commercial center. The urban–rural gradient is gradual, with agricultural activities seamlessly blending into the town’s periphery. While not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, Chengala benefits from its connection to the broader Kerala road network, which can occasionally introduce transient vehicular emissions. The presence of fisheries and small-scale processing units contributes a localized, albeit generally minor, source of potential air pollutants. The town’s location within a humid tropical climate zone, coupled with its coastal setting, creates a unique microclimate that impacts the dispersion and persistence of airborne particles.

Chengala’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly influencing its air quality profile. The southwest monsoon, typically spanning from June to September, brings torrential rainfall and strong winds, effectively scrubbing the atmosphere and significantly reducing particulate matter and gaseous pollutants. This period generally offers the best air quality for outdoor activities. Conversely, the pre-monsoon months (March-May) often experience a build-up of pollutants due to stagnant air and rising temperatures. The lack of consistent rainfall allows for the accumulation of dust, vehicle emissions, and agricultural activities’ byproducts. Temperature inversions, common during these months, trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the situation. The post-monsoon season (October-November) sees a gradual improvement in air quality as rainfall returns, but lingering humidity can still contribute to the presence of moisture-related pollutants. Fog, particularly during the cooler months (December-January), can also temporarily reduce visibility and trap pollutants. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon months, limiting strenuous outdoor activities during peak hours. Agricultural burning, a common practice in surrounding areas, can occasionally contribute to localized spikes in air pollution, particularly during the transition periods between seasons. Maintaining awareness of local weather conditions and minimizing exposure during periods of stagnant air are crucial for safeguarding respiratory health.