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Koregaon, a municipality in Satara district, Maharashtra, India, sits at coordinates 18.6456°N, 74.0592°E. The town is nestled within the Sahyadri mountain range, a region characterised by undulating terrain and a relatively high elevation for the Deccan Plateau, influencing local wind patterns and pollutant dispersion. Koregaon’s landscape is a mosaic of agricultural lands – primarily sugarcane and grape farms – interspersed with patches of deciduous forest. The town benefits from proximity to the Krishna River, though this also contributes to localised humidity. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; Koregaon serves as a market centre for surrounding villages, meaning increased vehicular traffic during peak agricultural seasons. While not a major industrial hub itself, Koregaon is within reach of industrial areas in nearby cities like Satara and Pune, potentially contributing to regional background pollution. The terrain funnels winds, creating localised areas of stagnation, particularly during calmer periods. This geographical setting, combined with agricultural practices like crop residue burning, significantly impacts the town’s air quality. The surrounding hills limit air circulation, exacerbating pollution build-up. Koregaon’s position within a rain shadow area also affects precipitation patterns, influencing the washing-away of pollutants.

Koregaon experiences a distinct wet and dry season, mirroring the broader monsoon climate of Maharashtra. Air quality generally improves dramatically during the monsoon months (June-September) as rainfall effectively scrubs the atmosphere of particulate matter. However, increased humidity can also foster mould growth, impacting respiratory health. The post-monsoon period (October-November) sees a gradual deterioration in air quality as temperatures drop and wind speeds decrease, leading to temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground. This is often compounded by crop residue burning after the harvest. Winter (December-February) represents the period of poorest air quality, with calm conditions and increased use of solid fuels for heating contributing to higher concentrations of pollutants. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during these months. The pre-monsoon season (March-May) sees rising temperatures and dust storms, elevating particulate matter levels. Avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during peak heat and dust events is advisable. Overall, the monsoon season offers the most favourable conditions for outdoor activity, while winter demands the greatest caution.