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Tiruvēgapra, nestled in the Kollam district of Kerala, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the state’s southern region. Located at approximately 10.8730° N latitude and 76.1250° E longitude, the town’s terrain is characterized by gentle slopes transitioning into the undulating landscape typical of Kerala’s coastal plains. The elevation is relatively low, averaging around 25 meters above sea level, contributing to a humid, tropical climate. The town is situated near the Ashtamudi Lake, a vast and ecologically important brackish water body, which influences local weather patterns and provides a degree of natural air purification through evaporative cooling. Surrounding Tiruvēgapra is a mosaic of agricultural land, primarily focused on coconut, rubber, and paddy cultivation, interspersed with small-scale homestead gardens. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to localized particulate matter, particularly during harvesting seasons. To the east, the Western Ghats rise dramatically, acting as a barrier that can trap pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. The urban–rural gradient around Tiruvēgapra is gradual; the town itself is relatively small, with a population of approximately 29,810, and blends seamlessly into the surrounding rural landscape. While not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, its proximity to Kollam, a larger industrial and port city, means it can be affected by transboundary pollution events. The coastal location also makes it susceptible to sea breezes, which can disperse pollutants but also carry marine aerosols.

Tiruvēgapra’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by Kerala’s monsoon climate. The southwest monsoon, typically spanning June to September, brings abundant rainfall and strong winds, effectively flushing the atmosphere and resulting in the cleanest air quality of the year. This period is generally favorable for outdoor activities, although occasional heavy downpours can temporarily reduce visibility. The pre-monsoon season (March-May) is often the most challenging. Rising temperatures and decreasing humidity create stable atmospheric conditions, frequently leading to temperature inversions, particularly in the evenings. These inversions trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating any emissions from local sources. Agricultural burning, a common practice during this period to clear fields for planting, significantly contributes to particulate matter. The northeast monsoon (October-November) brings a second, albeit less intense, period of rainfall, offering some respite from the pre-monsoon pollution. During the dry season (December-February), while rainfall is minimal, wind patterns are generally more favorable for dispersion, preventing severe pollution episodes. However, fog, particularly in January and February, can reduce visibility and trap pollutants close to the surface. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon season, limiting strenuous outdoor activity during peak pollution hours. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable during this period.