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Peragamanna, nestled in the verdant state of Kerala, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Western Ghats foothills. Located at approximately 11.2139° N latitude and 76.1270° E longitude, the city’s terrain is characterized by gentle slopes and undulating landscapes, typical of Kerala’s coastal plains transitioning into the highlands. The surrounding landscape is dominated by lush tropical forests, interspersed with small-scale agricultural plots cultivating spices, rubber, and coconut – a common feature of Kerala’s rural economy. Peragamanna’s proximity to the Arabian Sea, roughly 20 kilometers to the west, influences local weather patterns and contributes to humidity levels. The urban character is distinctly rural, with a relatively low population density of 17,079, suggesting a predominantly agrarian lifestyle. The urban–rural gradient is gradual, with small settlements and agricultural fields seamlessly blending into the city’s periphery. While Peragamanna itself lacks major industrial zones, it sits within a region experiencing increasing agricultural intensification, potentially leading to localised pollution from fertilizer use and pesticide application. The elevation, though modest, contributes to localized microclimates, and the surrounding forests act as a natural filter, though their effectiveness is dependent on the scale of pollution sources. The prevailing winds, generally southwesterly during the monsoon and northwesterly during the dry season, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants, impacting air quality across the region.

Peragamanna’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 torrential rainfall, effectively scrubbing the atmosphere and significantly reducing particulate matter and gaseous pollutants. This period generally offers the best air quality, with increased ventilation due to strong winds. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased humidity, which can exacerbate respiratory issues for sensitive individuals. The dry season, from October to May, presents a contrasting scenario. Reduced rainfall and lower humidity contribute to a build-up of pollutants, particularly during the cooler months (December-February). Temperature inversions, common during these months, trap pollutants near the ground, potentially leading to stagnant air and increased concentrations of certain pollutants. Agricultural burning, a practice sometimes employed to clear fields after harvest, can also contribute to localised spikes in air pollution during this period. Fog, frequently occurring in the mornings during the dry season, further restricts atmospheric mixing and can worsen air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing 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 precautions should be taken due to heavy rainfall. The transition periods (spring and autumn) offer a moderate air quality profile, with gradually changing meteorological conditions.