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Kunnamangalam, nestled in the Kozhikode district of Kerala, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Malabar region. Located at approximately 11.3064° N latitude and 75.8789° E longitude, the town’s terrain is characterized by undulating hills and valleys, typical of Kerala’s coastal plains transitioning into the Western Ghats. The elevation varies, generally ranging from 10 to 50 meters above sea level, influencing local wind patterns and temperature distribution. The proximity to the Arabian Sea, roughly 15 kilometers to the west, plays a crucial role in moderating temperatures and introducing maritime influences on air quality. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of lush agricultural land, primarily rice paddies and coconut groves, interspersed with small-scale plantations of spices and rubber. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to localized emissions, particularly during harvesting and processing seasons. To the east, the gradual ascent towards the foothills of the Western Ghats introduces a more rural character, with denser forests and fewer urban settlements. The urban–rural gradient is relatively smooth, with Kunnamangalam acting as a transitional zone. Industrial activity is limited, primarily consisting of small-scale manufacturing units and food processing facilities, minimizing large-scale industrial pollution. However, vehicular traffic within the town and along connecting roadways contributes to localized air pollution, especially during peak hours. The prevailing winds, generally southwesterly during the monsoon and northwesterly during the dry season, significantly impact the dispersion of pollutants, often carrying them towards the coastal areas.

Kunnamangalam’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season cycle, profoundly influencing its air quality. The southwest monsoon, typically spanning from June to September, brings abundant rainfall, effectively cleansing the atmosphere and significantly reducing particulate matter concentrations. The heavy downpours wash away dust and pollutants, leading to generally improved air quality during these months. However, periods of intense rainfall can temporarily increase humidity, potentially exacerbating respiratory issues for sensitive individuals. The dry season, from October to May, presents a contrasting scenario. Reduced rainfall and lower humidity levels allow for the accumulation of pollutants. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler months (December-February), trap pollutants near the ground, leading to stagnant air and potentially elevated concentrations of certain pollutants. Fog, particularly prevalent in the mornings during the dry season, further restricts atmospheric mixing and can worsen air quality. Agricultural burning, though regulated, can occasionally occur during the pre-monsoon period (March-May), contributing to localized smoke and particulate matter. The months of January and February, with their cooler temperatures and potential for inversions, are generally periods to exercise caution for individuals with respiratory conditions, such as asthma or bronchitis. During the monsoon months, while overall air quality improves, those with allergies may experience increased pollen exposure. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can be beneficial throughout the year, especially for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.