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Tirkadavūr, nestled in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the state’s coastal plains. Located at approximately 8.9206° N latitude and 76.5948° E longitude, the town’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Kerala backwaters region. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and intricate canal systems, a defining feature of Kerala’s agrarian economy. Tirkadavūr sits relatively close to the Arabian Sea, influencing local humidity and prevailing winds. The urban character is that of a developing town, transitioning from a primarily rural agricultural hub to a more diversified economy with increasing commercial activity. While not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, it’s within reasonable proximity to industrial zones concentrated around Kochi, which can contribute to regional air pollution transport. The urban–rural gradient is gradual, with agricultural land seamlessly blending into residential areas. Elevation is minimal, rarely exceeding 10 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate ground-level pollutant accumulation, particularly during periods of stagnant air. The presence of numerous small-scale agricultural activities, including rice cultivation and coconut farming, introduces localized sources of particulate matter, primarily from burning agricultural residue and fertilizer application. The backwater ecosystem itself, while generally beneficial, can occasionally contribute to localized odour and potentially trace gaseous pollutants depending on water quality and seasonal fluctuations.

Tirkadavūr’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly influencing air quality dynamics. The southwest monsoon, typically spanning from June to September, brings torrential rainfall, effectively cleansing the atmosphere and significantly reducing particulate matter concentrations. This period generally offers the best air quality for outdoor activities. Conversely, the pre-monsoon months (March-May) often experience heightened pollution levels. High temperatures and reduced rainfall lead to stagnant air conditions, promoting the accumulation of pollutants. Temperature inversions, common during these months, trap pollutants near the ground, worsening air quality. The dry season (October-January) presents a mixed picture. While rainfall is less frequent than during the monsoon, wind patterns can be more variable, occasionally dispersing pollutants. However, agricultural burning, a common practice to clear fields for the next planting season, can significantly elevate particulate matter levels, particularly in November and December. Fog, which occasionally forms during the cooler months, further restricts atmospheric mixing and traps pollutants. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and agricultural burning periods. During the monsoon, while overall air quality improves, heavy rainfall can still lead to localized flooding and associated mould growth, impacting indoor air quality. Maintaining good ventilation and avoiding prolonged exposure to damp environments is advisable throughout the year.