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Perāmpuzha, nestled in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the state’s coastal belt. Located at approximately 12.1343° N latitude and 75.3006° E longitude, the town’s terrain is predominantly low-lying, characteristic of the Kerala plains. Its proximity to the Arabian Sea, roughly 5-7 kilometers to the west, exerts a considerable influence on local climate and, consequently, air quality. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and smaller settlements, representing a gradual urban-rural gradient. While Perāmpuzha itself is a relatively small town with a population of around 11,355, it sits within a broader metropolitan area, benefiting from, and also impacted by, the industrial activity concentrated in the Kochi region. This proximity to industrial zones, particularly those related to seafood processing and related industries, introduces potential sources of localized air pollution. The elevation is minimal, rarely exceeding 15 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate the trapping of pollutants, especially during periods of stagnant air. The backwaters, a defining feature of Kerala’s geography, also play a role, influencing humidity and potentially affecting the dispersion of airborne particles. Agricultural practices in the surrounding areas, while generally sustainable, can contribute to seasonal particulate matter, particularly during harvest times. The town’s location within a humid tropical climate zone further complicates air quality dynamics, impacting pollutant reactivity and dispersion.

Perāmpuzha’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal rhythm dictated by Kerala’s monsoon climate. The southwest monsoon, typically spanning from June to September, brings substantial rainfall and strong winds, effectively flushing out accumulated pollutants and generally improving air quality. This period is often the most favourable for outdoor activities, although heavy rainfall can occasionally reduce visibility. The pre-monsoon season (March-May) presents a contrasting scenario. Rising temperatures and decreasing rainfall lead to stagnant air conditions, increasing the likelihood of temperature inversions, particularly during the early morning hours. These inversions trap pollutants closer to the ground, potentially leading to a build-up of particulate matter and gaseous pollutants from local sources. The post-monsoon season (October-November) sees a gradual return to more stable atmospheric conditions, with moderate winds and occasional rainfall. However, agricultural burning in surrounding areas, a common practice during this time, can contribute to localized spikes in particulate pollution. The winter months (December-February) are generally mild and relatively dry, with calmer winds. While temperatures are cooler, the lack of significant rainfall and wind can still result in pollutant accumulation, especially in areas close to industrial or agricultural activity. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and winter months, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure during peak pollution hours. Maintaining awareness of local weather patterns and potential sources of pollution is crucial for minimizing health risks.