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Kallār, nestled in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the state’s coastal plains. Located at approximately 9.85°N latitude and 77.13°E longitude, the town’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Kerala backwaters region. Kallār sits close to the Vembanad Lake, the longest lake in India and a vital component of the Kerala backwaters ecosystem. This proximity to a large body of water significantly influences local humidity and temperature, moderating extremes but also contributing to stagnant air conditions under certain meteorological circumstances. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and smaller canals, representing a strong agricultural zone. The urban–rural gradient around Kallār is gradual; the town itself is relatively small, transitioning seamlessly into the surrounding agricultural lands and smaller villages. While Kallār isn't directly adjacent to major industrial belts, it’s within reasonable proximity to industrial areas in Alappuzha and Kochi, potentially experiencing some secondary impacts from their emissions. The elevation is low, generally below 10 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate the trapping of pollutants, particularly during periods of temperature inversion. The prevailing winds, often influenced by the monsoon patterns, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating air pollutants, impacting the overall air quality within and around Kallār. The region's dense vegetation, while generally beneficial for air quality, can also trap pollutants under stable atmospheric conditions.

Kallār’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly influencing its air quality. The southwest monsoon, typically spanning from June to September, brings heavy rainfall and strong winds, generally leading to improved air quality as pollutants are washed away and dispersed. However, during the initial stages of the monsoon, dust storms originating from inland regions can temporarily degrade air quality. The dry season, from October to May, presents a different set of challenges. Reduced rainfall and lower wind speeds often result in stagnant air, particularly during the cooler months of December and January. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air sits above cooler air near the ground, are more frequent during this period, trapping pollutants close to the surface. Fog, common during the winter months, further exacerbates this issue by reducing visibility and hindering pollutant dispersion. Agricultural burning, a common practice in the region during the dry season to clear fields for the next planting cycle, contributes significantly to particulate matter pollution. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of fog or temperature inversions. Outdoor activities are generally more favourable during the monsoon months, although caution should be taken during the initial onset of the monsoon due to potential dust events. The transition periods between the wet and dry seasons can be unpredictable, with fluctuating air quality depending on prevailing weather conditions.