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Edakkazhiyūr, a coastal town in Kollam district, Kerala, India, sits at coordinates 10.6167°N, 75.9833°E, and is home to a population of approximately 15,553. Its geography is fundamentally shaped by its proximity to the Arabian Sea, lying within a few kilometers of the coastline. The terrain is generally flat, characteristic of the Kerala coastal plain, with a gentle slope inland. This low elevation contributes to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of coconut groves, paddy fields, and dense vegetation typical of the Kerala backwaters. While Edakkazhiyūr isn’t a major industrial hub, the broader Kollam district contains cashew processing units and fishing industries, potential sources of localised pollution. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; the town itself is densely populated, transitioning quickly to agricultural land and rural settlements. The backwaters, a network of lagoons and canals, influence local wind patterns and humidity, impacting pollutant dispersal. The coastal location means the town is susceptible to sea breezes, which can either dilute or concentrate pollutants depending on prevailing conditions. The lack of significant hills or mountains hinders vertical mixing, potentially exacerbating air quality issues during calm periods. This unique combination of factors dictates the town’s air quality profile.

Edakkazhiyūr experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, heavily influencing its air quality. The southwest monsoon, typically from June to September, brings heavy rainfall which effectively washes particulate matter from the air, resulting in generally improved air quality during these months. However, increased humidity can also foster mould growth, impacting respiratory health. October and November see a transition period with calmer winds and decreasing rainfall, leading to a gradual build-up of pollutants. The dry season, from December to May, presents the most challenging air quality conditions. Lower rainfall and stagnant air allow pollutants from local sources – vehicle emissions, cooking fires, and potential industrial activity in nearby areas – to accumulate. January and February are often the driest months, with increased dust and a higher risk of respiratory irritation. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler months, trap pollutants near the ground. March and April see rising temperatures and potential for localised dust storms. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly in the late afternoons and evenings when pollutant concentrations are typically highest. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; onshore breezes can carry pollutants from the sea, while offshore breezes may offer temporary relief.