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Kadattūr, a small town in Tamil Nadu, India, sits at coordinates 12.0861°N, 78.2926°E, within the broader Kongu Nadu region. The terrain is largely flat, characteristic of the Kaveri Delta plains, though a gentle slope exists towards the south. The town’s elevation is relatively low, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. Kadattūr is not directly adjacent to a major body of water, though the Kaveri River flows within a reasonable distance, influencing local humidity and microclimates. Surrounding Kadattūr is a predominantly agricultural landscape, dominated by coconut, paddy, and sugarcane cultivation. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, introduces potential sources of air pollution through pesticide use, biomass burning for land preparation, and fertilizer application. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; Kadattūr itself is a concentrated settlement, quickly giving way to rural farmland. While not a major industrial hub, the presence of small-scale brick kilns and agricultural processing units contributes to particulate matter emissions. The town’s location, shielded by the Western Ghats to the west, can sometimes lead to stagnant air conditions, exacerbating pollution build-up, particularly during calmer weather patterns. The prevailing wind direction plays a crucial role in pollutant transport, often carrying emissions from nearby agricultural areas into the town.

Kadattūr experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, from January to May, sees consistently higher levels of particulate matter due to dust from agricultural activities and increased reliance on biomass burning. February and March are typically the worst months for outdoor activity for those with respiratory sensitivities. The pre-monsoon months of May and June bring hot, dry winds that can carry pollutants from distant sources. The southwest monsoon arrives in June, offering a temporary respite as rainfall washes pollutants from the atmosphere. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of secondary pollutants. The monsoon season (June-September) generally exhibits the best air quality, though localised flooding can sometimes lead to the spread of mould and allergens. Post-monsoon (October-November) sees a gradual return to drier conditions and a corresponding increase in dust and particulate matter. November can be problematic as farmers prepare fields for the next crop, often employing burning practices. During temperature inversions, common in the cooler months, pollutants become trapped near the ground, worsening air quality. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during the dry season and periods of stagnant air.