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Trikkodithanam, commonly known as Trikodi, is a small town nestled in the Kasaragod district of Kerala, India. Situated at coordinates 11.4667°N 75.6167°E, the town occupies a relatively low-lying area within the coastal plains of the Western Ghats. The terrain is predominantly flat, transitioning into gently undulating hills as one moves eastward towards the mountains. This proximity to the Western Ghats influences local weather patterns, contributing to high humidity and significant rainfall during the monsoon season. Trikodi benefits from its location near the Arabian Sea, approximately 8-10 kilometers west, which moderates temperatures but also introduces sea breezes that can carry saline particles inland. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of coconut plantations, paddy fields, and cashew nut farms – characteristic of Kerala’s agricultural economy. While Trikodi itself isn’t heavily industrialised, the broader Kasaragod district has pockets of small-scale industries, including beedi rolling and tile manufacturing, which contribute to localised pollution. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; Trikodi serves as a service centre for surrounding rural villages, meaning increased vehicular traffic during market days. This combination of agricultural practices, coastal influence, and limited industrial activity shapes the town’s unique air quality profile. The dense vegetation generally offers some natural filtration, but seasonal burning of agricultural waste can negate these benefits.

Trikodi experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, heavily influencing its air quality. The southwest monsoon, typically from June to September, brings torrential rainfall, effectively washing away particulate matter and improving air quality. However, the increased humidity can foster mould growth, potentially impacting respiratory health. October and November see a transition period with calmer winds and gradually decreasing rainfall, leading to a slight build-up of pollutants. The dry season, from December to February, is generally the period of poorest air quality. Lower rainfall means pollutants accumulate, and temperature inversions, common during cooler months, trap pollutants near ground level. Agricultural burning, particularly of rice stubble after harvest, exacerbates this issue. March to May are hot and humid, with increasing convective activity that can temporarily disperse pollutants, but also creates conditions for ozone formation. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly in January and February. Wearing masks during peak agricultural burning periods is advisable. The monsoon months offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activities, but caution is needed regarding waterborne diseases.