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Konark, a coastal town in the Puri district of Odisha, India, is geographically defined by its proximity to the Bay of Bengal. Situated at 19.8908°N latitude and 86.1003°E longitude, the town’s terrain is largely flat, characteristic of the coastal plains of eastern India. The elevation is minimal, averaging around 10 meters above sea level, making it highly susceptible to sea breezes and associated humidity. Konark’s urban character is intrinsically linked to the famed Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the surrounding tourism infrastructure. The surrounding landscape is a mix of agricultural land – primarily rice paddies – and casuarina plantations, common along the Odisha coastline. While Konark itself isn’t heavily industrialised, the broader Puri-Bhubaneswar industrial corridor lies to the north, contributing to regional pollution transport. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; immediately surrounding Konark are villages engaged in fishing and agriculture, transitioning quickly to denser settlements closer to the temple complex. This coastal location means air quality is heavily influenced by sea salt aerosols, but also vulnerable to pollutants carried by winds from inland sources and seasonal monsoon patterns. The lack of significant topographical barriers allows for easy dispersion, but also easy influx of pollutants.

Konark experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons heavily influencing air quality. The post-monsoon season (October-November) often sees a temporary improvement as rainfall washes away accumulated pollutants, but stagnant air and temperature inversions can trap residual particulate matter. The dry season (December-April) is generally the period of poorest air quality. Lower humidity and stronger winds can stir up dust from agricultural lands and construction activities, increasing PM10 and PM2.5 levels. February and March are typically the most challenging months. The pre-monsoon season (May-June) brings increasing temperatures and localised dust storms, exacerbating respiratory issues. The southwest monsoon (July-September) provides significant relief, with heavy rainfall effectively cleansing the air. However, increased humidity can also promote the growth of mould and allergens. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season and periods of high dust. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; winds from the northwest often carry pollutants from inland industrial areas. Staying indoors during peak pollution times and using air purifiers are recommended.