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Hosūr, situated in the Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu, India, occupies a strategic position within the broader Bengaluru-Hosūr industrial corridor. The city’s geography is characterised by relatively flat terrain, part of the Deccan Plateau, with an average elevation around 900 meters. This plateau landscape contributes to temperature inversions, a key factor influencing air quality. Hosūr isn’t directly adjacent to a major body of water, though smaller rivers and tanks dot the surrounding landscape, providing limited natural air purification. The city’s rapid industrial growth, particularly in sectors like automobile component manufacturing and heavy engineering, has transformed the urban character from a primarily agricultural hub to a bustling industrial centre. This transition has created a stark urban-rural gradient, with agricultural lands still prevalent in the periphery. The surrounding landscape features scrubland and dry deciduous forests. The proximity to Bengaluru, a major metropolitan area, also contributes to regional pollution transport. Dust from construction activities and unpaved roads, combined with emissions from a high density of vehicular traffic and industrial processes, significantly impact local air quality. The prevailing winds, influenced by the monsoon patterns, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants.

Hosūr experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Air quality generally worsens during the dry season (November to May), peaking in March and April. This is due to reduced rainfall, leading to dust accumulation from construction and road traffic, and increased industrial activity. Temperature inversions are common during these months, trapping pollutants near the ground. The summer heat exacerbates ozone formation, a secondary pollutant. The southwest monsoon (June to September) brings relief, washing away pollutants and improving air quality. However, increased humidity can also contribute to the formation of particulate matter. October and early November see a transitional period with fluctuating air quality. Fog, common during the cooler months, can trap pollutants, leading to localised poor air quality events. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during peak pollution periods in the dry season. During the monsoon, while air is cleaner, the risk of waterborne diseases increases, requiring caution. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; pollutants often accumulate when winds are calm or blow from industrial areas.