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Arumbākkam, nestled in the Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Coromandel Coast region. Located at approximately 13.54°N latitude and 80.07°E longitude, the city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the fertile plains of South India. Its elevation is relatively low, contributing to a tendency for pollutants to accumulate, particularly during periods of atmospheric stability. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – predominantly rice paddies and vegetable farms – interspersed with small villages and pockets of scrubland. This agricultural activity, while vital to the regional economy, can contribute to localised air pollution through the burning of crop residue and the use of fertilizers. Arumbākkam’s proximity to the Bay of Bengal, roughly 30 kilometers to the east, influences local weather patterns and can, under certain conditions, provide a degree of natural ventilation, dispersing pollutants. However, coastal winds can also carry marine aerosols and salt, impacting air quality. The urban–rural gradient around Arumbākkam is gradual; the city itself is a small, primarily residential settlement, but it sits within a broader zone of increasing urbanisation as it approaches Chennai, India’s sixth-largest city. This proximity to a major industrial and commercial hub means Arumbākkam is susceptible to the indirect impacts of industrial emissions and vehicular traffic from Chennai, particularly through prevailing wind patterns. The flat topography and surrounding agricultural lands create a bowl-like effect, potentially trapping pollutants and exacerbating local air quality challenges.

Arumbākkam’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, is often characterized by higher pollution levels. Reduced rainfall and increased temperatures lead to a build-up of particulate matter and ground-level ozone. Temperature inversions, common during this period, trap pollutants close to the ground, worsening conditions. Agricultural burning, a practice employed to clear fields after the harvest, significantly contributes to particulate pollution during these months. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief as heavy rainfall washes away pollutants and strong winds disperse them. However, the onset of the monsoon can initially be accompanied by increased humidity and fog, which can temporarily reduce visibility and trap pollutants. October and November represent a transitional period, with gradually decreasing rainfall and increasing temperatures, potentially leading to a resurgence of pollution. December and January are generally cooler and drier, with relatively better air quality compared to the peak of the dry season, although fog can still be a factor. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of agricultural burning. Limiting outdoor exertion and wearing masks can help mitigate exposure. During the monsoon, while overall air quality improves, those with allergies should be mindful of increased pollen and fungal spore counts.