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Kodala, nestled in the Ganjam district of Odisha, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Eastern Ghats foothills. Located at approximately 19.6243° N, 84.9408° E, the town’s terrain is characterized by gently undulating hills and valleys, a typical feature of the region's transitional landscape between the coastal plains and the highlands. The elevation, though modest, influences local air circulation patterns, potentially trapping pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. Kodala’s proximity to the Bay of Bengal, roughly 60 kilometers away, introduces a maritime influence, moderating temperatures but also occasionally carrying saline aerosols. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – predominantly rice and pulses – interspersed with patches of deciduous forests, contributing to both biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) and potential dust sources. The urban–rural gradient around Kodala is relatively gradual; the town itself is small, with a population of 16,295, and blends seamlessly into the surrounding agricultural and rural areas. There are no major industrial belts immediately adjacent to Kodala, however, the broader Ganjam district experiences some industrial activity related to mining and processing of minerals, and the potential for transport-related pollution from regional roadways is a factor. The town’s location within a relatively sheltered valley can exacerbate air quality issues when combined with stagnant air masses, particularly during cooler months. The local topography plays a crucial role in how pollutants disperse, or fail to disperse, within the Kodala microclimate.

Kodala’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by the region’s tropical monsoon climate. The monsoon season, typically spanning June to September, brings relief from accumulated pollutants due to frequent rainfall and strong winds that effectively flush the atmosphere. However, the monsoon also introduces its own challenges – increased humidity can trap particulate matter close to the ground, and agricultural burning practices, common after the harvest, contribute to localized spikes in smoke and particulate pollution. The pre-monsoon months (March-May) are often characterized by rising temperatures and decreasing humidity, creating conditions conducive to temperature inversions, particularly in the evenings. These inversions trap pollutants near the surface, leading to a noticeable decline in air quality. The post-monsoon season (October-November) sees a gradual return to drier conditions, but with relatively calmer winds compared to the monsoon, which can lead to a build-up of pollutants. Winter months (December-February) are typically the most challenging, with cooler temperatures, frequent fog, and reduced wind speeds. The fog, while visually striking, significantly reduces visibility and traps pollutants, exacerbating respiratory issues. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during these periods, especially in the early morning hours when fog is most prevalent. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can also be beneficial. The agricultural cycle and associated burning practices are key factors influencing air quality throughout the year, requiring careful management to minimize their impact.