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Cholavandān, a municipality in Tamil Nadu, India, sits at coordinates 10.0167°N, 77.9667°E, nestled within the fertile Kaveri Delta region. The city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of this alluvial plain, with an elevation hovering around 30 meters above sea level. This low-lying geography, coupled with its proximity to the Kaveri River and its tributaries, influences local humidity and temperature patterns. Cholavandān is surrounded by intensely cultivated agricultural lands, primarily paddy fields, interspersed with coconut groves and other tropical crops. While not a major industrial hub itself, the city functions as a crucial market and service centre for the surrounding agricultural economy. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, transitioning quickly from densely populated residential areas to expansive farmland. This proximity to agricultural practices introduces potential sources of air pollution, including seasonal crop residue burning and fertilizer application. The delta’s flat topography can also contribute to the trapping of pollutants, particularly during periods of calm winds. The regional climate is tropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons, impacting dispersion patterns. Cholavandān’s location within this agricultural heartland dictates its air quality challenges, making it sensitive to both local and regional pollution sources.

Cholavandān experiences a distinct wet and dry season cycle that profoundly impacts air quality. The dry season, roughly from January to May, sees a build-up of particulate matter due to dust from agricultural activities and reduced rainfall for atmospheric cleansing. February and March are often the most challenging months, with stagnant air and increased dust levels. The onset of the southwest monsoon in June brings significant relief, washing away pollutants and improving air quality considerably. However, increased humidity can also foster mold growth, impacting respiratory health. The monsoon season, lasting until September/October, generally offers the cleanest air, though localised flooding can disrupt transportation and potentially release pollutants from stagnant water. Post-monsoon, from October to December, sees a gradual deterioration as agricultural burning increases in preparation for the next planting season. This period is marked by increased levels of smoke and particulate matter. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season and periods of agricultural burning. Monitoring wind patterns is crucial; north-easterly winds during the dry season can carry pollutants from surrounding areas into Cholavandān.