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Anūppur, nestled in the eastern region of Madhya Pradesh, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the broader Satpura Plateau landscape. Located at approximately 23.1034° N latitude and 81.6908° E longitude, the city’s terrain is characterized by undulating hills and valleys, a typical feature of the plateau. The elevation, averaging around 330 meters (1083 feet) above sea level, contributes to localized microclimates and can influence air circulation patterns. Anūppur sits on the edge of the Hasdeo River basin, with the Hasdeo River itself flowing nearby, providing a crucial water source but also potentially impacting humidity levels and local weather systems. The surrounding landscape is a mix of dense forests, primarily sal (Shorea robusta) and teak, interspersed with agricultural lands. This proximity to both forested areas and agricultural zones presents a complex interplay regarding air quality. While forests can act as carbon sinks, agricultural practices, particularly burning of crop residue post-harvest, can introduce significant particulate matter into the atmosphere. The urban–rural gradient around Anūppur is relatively sharp, with the city acting as a regional trading hub and administrative center for the surrounding rural communities. Industries, including coal mining and related processing activities, are present in the region, further influencing the local air quality profile. The plateau's topography, combined with the presence of these industries and agricultural practices, creates conditions where pollutants can sometimes become trapped, particularly during periods of low wind speed and stable atmospheric conditions. The city’s relatively small population size (21,651) suggests a compact urban footprint, but the regional economic importance means it draws in traffic and activity from a wider area.

Anūppur’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The monsoon season, typically spanning from June to September, brings relief from accumulated pollutants due to frequent rainfall and increased wind speeds, effectively flushing the atmosphere. However, the preceding pre-monsoon months (March-May) often witness a significant deterioration in air quality. High temperatures and stagnant air, coupled with the practice of agricultural burning to clear fields, lead to elevated levels of particulate matter. Temperature inversions, common during this period, trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the problem. The post-monsoon season (October-November) can also see a rise in pollution as agricultural activities resume and cooler temperatures reduce atmospheric mixing. Winter months (December-February) are generally characterized by cooler temperatures and frequent fog, which further restricts air movement and allows pollutants to accumulate. The fog, while visually striking, significantly reduces visibility and concentrates airborne particles. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and winter months, limiting outdoor exertion and wearing appropriate masks when necessary. During the monsoon, while air quality generally improves, heavy rainfall can still lead to localized flooding and the release of pollutants from waterlogged areas. Overall, the months of April and November tend to be the most challenging for air quality in Anūppur, demanding heightened awareness and preventative measures.