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Udayagiri, nestled in the Kandhamal district of Odisha, India, occupies a unique geographic position within the Eastern Ghats. Situated at coordinates 20.1242°N, 84.3687°E, the town’s terrain is predominantly hilly and forested, characteristic of the region’s undulating landscape. With a population of approximately 13,469, Udayagiri maintains a strong rural character, though it serves as a crucial market centre for surrounding agricultural communities. The town’s elevation, around 630 meters (2,067 feet), influences local weather patterns and air circulation. The surrounding landscape is dominated by dense sal forests and agricultural lands, primarily focused on rice and millet cultivation. While not directly adjacent to a major industrial belt, the increasing use of agricultural machinery and localised brick kilns contribute to particulate matter emissions. The proximity to the Phulbani district, a regional hub, means Udayagiri experiences some through-traffic. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; immediately surrounding the town are villages heavily reliant on traditional biomass fuels for cooking and heating. This, combined with the topography, can lead to localised air pollution concentrations, particularly during calmer weather conditions. The Eastern Ghats act as a partial barrier to wind flow, potentially trapping pollutants within the valley where Udayagiri is located.

Udayagiri’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern heavily influenced by the monsoon and post-monsoon periods. The pre-monsoon months (March-May) typically see a deterioration in air quality due to increased dust from agricultural activities, drier conditions, and potential forest fires. Temperatures rise, exacerbating the impact of particulate matter. The arrival of the southwest monsoon in June-September brings a temporary respite, as rainfall effectively washes away pollutants and increases humidity, suppressing dust. However, increased cloud cover can also lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. Post-monsoon (October-November) often experiences a resurgence of pollution as agricultural burning increases after the harvest, and cooler temperatures contribute to stable atmospheric conditions. Winter months (December-February) are generally characterised by calmer winds and temperature inversions, leading to the accumulation of pollutants from biomass burning for heating and cooking. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. Avoiding peak hours and using appropriate respiratory protection are advisable. Monitoring local conditions and heeding health advisories is crucial for maintaining well-being.