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Nestled in the Kollam district of Kerala, Punalur occupies a strategic position along the banks of the Kallada River, approximately 45 kilometres northeast of Kollam city. This small urban centre sits at an elevation of around 56 metres above sea level within the undulating terrain of the Western Ghats foothills, creating a natural basin-like setting that significantly influences its air quality dynamics. The city's geography is characterised by lush tropical vegetation transitioning from dense forests in surrounding hills to cultivated rubber plantations and agricultural zones, creating a distinct urban-rural gradient where industrial activities intersect with natural landscapes. Punalur's location in the industrial belt of southern Kerala places it near significant pollution sources, including paper mills and plywood factories that cluster along the riverbanks, while its position in a valley exacerbates pollutant trapping during certain meteorological conditions. The Kallada River, while providing water resources, also serves as a corridor for industrial emissions dispersion under favourable wind conditions, though the surrounding hills often create stagnant air pockets. This geographic configuration—a river valley settlement surrounded by hills—makes Punalur particularly vulnerable to the accumulation of locally generated pollutants from its known sources, with limited natural ventilation compared to coastal cities in Kerala.

Punalur's tropical monsoon climate creates distinct seasonal patterns in air quality, with pollution levels fluctuating dramatically throughout the year. During the pre-monsoon months of February through April, the city experiences its peak pollution period characterised by hot, dry conditions with minimal rainfall and frequent temperature inversions that trap pollutants close to the ground. These months see elevated levels of particulate matter from road dust, industrial emissions, and biomass burning, making outdoor activities particularly challenging for sensitive groups like children, elderly residents, and those with respiratory conditions. The southwest monsoon from June to September brings substantial relief as heavy rains effectively wash pollutants from the atmosphere, though this period introduces weather hazards including flooding and landslides that pose different health risks. October and November mark the post-monsoon transition with improving air quality as rainfall decreases but humidity remains high, occasionally creating foggy conditions that can temporarily elevate particulate concentrations. December through January represents the most favourable period for outdoor activities with cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and relatively cleaner air, though early morning fog can sometimes cause temporary reductions in visibility and air quality. Sensitive groups should particularly avoid prolonged outdoor exposure during the peak pollution months and monitor local weather advisories during monsoon periods when alternative indoor activities are recommended.