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Puri, a coastal city in the state of Odisha, India, occupies a unique geographic position on the Bay of Bengal at coordinates 19.8106°N, 85.8314°E. With a population of 201,026, the city’s urban character is deeply intertwined with its religious significance as a major Hindu pilgrimage site, centered around the Jagannath Temple. The terrain is predominantly flat, a coastal plain formed by the Mahanadi delta, with a gentle slope towards the sea. This low elevation makes Puri particularly vulnerable to cyclones and storm surges. The surrounding landscape is a mix of agricultural land – primarily rice paddies – and sandy beaches. To the west lies the fertile plains of Odisha, transitioning into the Eastern Ghats further inland. While Puri itself lacks heavy industry, nearby industrial areas in Bhubaneswar and Paradip port contribute to regional pollution that can impact the city’s air quality. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with densely populated areas near the temple and coastline giving way to agricultural fields and villages further inland. Sea breezes play a crucial role in dispersing pollutants, but can also carry saline particles inland, impacting air composition. The proximity to the ocean moderates temperatures but also increases humidity, influencing pollutant behaviour.

Puri’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern. The post-monsoon season (October-November) often sees a temporary improvement due to rainfall washing away pollutants, but this is short-lived. Winter (December-February) brings calmer winds and temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground, particularly from biomass burning for warmth and cooking in surrounding villages. This period can experience the poorest air quality. The pre-monsoon months (March-May) are characterized by rising temperatures and dust storms, exacerbating particulate matter levels. The heat also promotes photochemical smog formation. The southwest monsoon (June-September) provides significant relief, with heavy rainfall effectively cleansing the air. However, increased humidity can also foster mold growth, impacting respiratory health. Outdoor activity is generally most favourable during the monsoon months, though precautions against waterborne diseases are necessary. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during winter and pre-monsoon periods. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; winds from the west can carry pollutants from inland sources. Avoiding peak hours near congested areas is also advisable.