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Nekaraaje, nestled in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Western Ghats mountain range. Located at approximately 12.54° N latitude and 75.08° E longitude, the village sits at an elevation of roughly 850 meters above sea level, contributing to a generally cooler climate compared to coastal Kerala. The surrounding landscape is dominated by lush, undulating hills covered in dense tropical evergreen forests and interspersed with tea and coffee plantations – a characteristic feature of Wayanad. The proximity to the Banasura Sagar Dam, a major reservoir, influences local microclimates and humidity levels. Nekaraaje’s terrain is predominantly hilly and agricultural, with a gradual urban–rural gradient extending outwards. While the village itself remains relatively small, it’s situated within a region experiencing increasing development, with pockets of small-scale industrial activity related to agriculture processing and tourism. This development, coupled with the reliance on biomass for cooking and heating in some households, presents potential air quality challenges. The prevailing winds, influenced by the Ghats’ topography, generally flow eastward, potentially carrying pollutants from nearby agricultural areas or limited industrial zones. The dense vegetation, however, acts as a natural filter, mitigating some of the impact. The village’s location within a biodiversity hotspot also means that air quality directly impacts the health of sensitive ecosystems.

Nekaraaje’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, significantly influencing air quality. The southwest monsoon, typically from June to September, brings torrential rainfall, effectively cleansing the atmosphere and dramatically reducing particulate matter. This period generally offers the best air quality, with frequent rain showers washing away pollutants and high humidity preventing dust accumulation. Conversely, the dry season (October to May) presents a more complex picture. While temperatures are milder than in other parts of Kerala, the lack of rainfall allows for the build-up of pollutants. Agricultural burning, a common practice for clearing fields after harvest, contributes significantly to particulate matter during November and December. January and February often experience periods of fog, particularly in the mornings, which traps pollutants near the ground, creating localized pockets of poorer air quality. The relatively stable atmospheric conditions during these months can also lead to temperature inversions, further exacerbating the issue. During the pre-monsoon months (March-May), increasing temperatures and decreasing humidity can lead to elevated levels of ozone, a secondary pollutant formed by reactions involving sunlight and precursor gases. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of agricultural burning or fog. Outdoor activities are generally best enjoyed during the monsoon months or early mornings when temperatures are cooler and winds are more likely to disperse pollutants.