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Palamel, nestled in the Kollam district of Kerala, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the state’s southern region. Located at approximately 9.1875° N latitude and 76.6498° E longitude, the town’s terrain is characterized by undulating hills and valleys, typical of Kerala’s Western Ghats foothills. The elevation varies, contributing to localized microclimates and influencing air circulation patterns. Palamel is situated relatively close to the Ashtamudi Lake, a vast and ecologically important brackish water lagoon, which plays a crucial role in moderating local temperatures and humidity. The surrounding landscape is predominantly rural, comprising rubber plantations, coconut groves, and paddy fields – a classic example of Kerala’s agricultural heartland. This proximity to agricultural zones introduces potential sources of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) and, during harvest seasons, agricultural burning, which can impact air quality. The urban–rural gradient around Palamel is gradual; the town itself is relatively small, with a population of 31,916, minimizing direct industrial emissions. However, its location within Kollam district means it’s within reach of industrial areas further north, potentially experiencing transported pollutants. The prevailing southwest monsoon winds significantly influence air quality, bringing moisture and often dispersing pollutants, while periods of calm during the dry season can lead to stagnation and localized pollution build-up. The topography, combined with the lake’s presence, creates complex airflow patterns that can trap or dilute pollutants depending on meteorological conditions.

Palamel’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season cycle, profoundly impacting its air quality. The southwest monsoon, typically spanning from June to September, brings torrential rainfall and strong winds, effectively flushing the atmosphere and significantly reducing particulate matter and gaseous pollutants. This period generally offers the best air quality for outdoor activities, though occasional heavy downpours can temporarily reduce visibility. The transition months of May and October experience variable conditions, with decreasing or increasing rainfall respectively, and can see a slight uptick in pollutants as winds become less consistent. The dry season, from November to April, presents a more complex picture. While temperatures rise, leading to increased photochemical smog potential, the prevailing winds often remain moderate, preventing severe pollution episodes. However, periods of calm, particularly during December and January, can lead to localized stagnation and a build-up of pollutants, especially near agricultural areas where controlled burns might occur. Fog, common during these months, traps pollutants close to the ground, exacerbating the issue. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during these periods, limiting strenuous outdoor activity and monitoring for any respiratory discomfort. The agricultural cycle also plays a role; burning of crop residue, though regulated, can occasionally contribute to localized pollution spikes. Overall, the monsoon season provides a natural cleansing effect, while the dry season requires vigilance and awareness of potential localized pollution events.