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Jalārpet, nestled in the Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu, India (12.5703° N, 78.5732° E), occupies a geographically significant position within the Eastern Ghats foothills. The town’s terrain is characterized by gently undulating hills and valleys, a landscape sculpted by the Penna River and its tributaries which flow eastward. This riverine influence moderates temperatures to some extent, but also contributes to localized humidity. Jalārpet’s elevation, averaging around 600 meters above sea level, plays a crucial role in its air quality dynamics. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – predominantly sugarcane, paddy, and pulses – interspersed with dry scrubland and rocky outcrops. This agricultural activity, particularly during harvest seasons, introduces biomass burning emissions. To the north and west, the landscape gradually transitions into more rugged terrain, limiting prevailing wind patterns and potentially trapping pollutants. The urban–rural gradient around Jalārpet is relatively sharp; the town itself is compact, but its influence extends into the surrounding agricultural areas. While not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, Jalārpet’s proximity to larger industrial zones in Hosur and Krishnagiri means it can be affected by transboundary pollution. The town’s location within a rain shadow area, influenced by the Western Ghats, results in relatively low annual rainfall, further impacting atmospheric dispersion and potentially exacerbating air quality issues during drier periods. The Penna River's flow also influences local microclimates, creating pockets of higher humidity and potentially affecting pollutant deposition.

Jalārpet’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s tropical climate and monsoon cycles. The pre-monsoon season (March-May) typically witnesses the poorest air quality. High temperatures and low humidity create stable atmospheric conditions, often leading to temperature inversions where cooler air is trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, preventing vertical mixing and concentrating pollutants. Agricultural burning, prevalent during this period as farmers clear fields for the next planting season, significantly contributes to particulate matter pollution. The monsoon season (June-September) brings relief, with increased rainfall and stronger winds dispersing pollutants. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased humidity and localized flooding, potentially impacting air quality through the release of mold spores and other allergens. The post-monsoon season (October-November) sees a gradual return to drier conditions, with a slight increase in pollution levels compared to the monsoon months. The winter months (December-February) are generally the most favourable for outdoor activities, with cooler temperatures and more frequent wind patterns aiding in pollutant dispersion. However, fog, particularly in December and January, can trap pollutants near the ground, creating localized episodes of reduced visibility and elevated particulate matter. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon season and periods of dense fog, limiting outdoor exertion and wearing appropriate masks when necessary. Maintaining awareness of local weather conditions and agricultural practices is key to mitigating exposure.