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Kolappalur, a small town in Tamil Nadu, India (11.5100°N, 77.4500°E), is situated within the broader Kongu Nadu region, a historically significant agricultural and industrial belt. The town’s elevation is relatively low, characteristic of the Tamil Nadu plains, contributing to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with rice paddies and coconut groves dominating the immediate vicinity. However, Kolappalur is increasingly influenced by the expanding industrial activity of nearby cities like Erode and Tiruppur, known for their textile and knitwear industries. This proximity introduces a significant source of particulate matter and gaseous pollutants. The Noyyal River, though often stressed and polluted, flows nearby, impacting local microclimates and potentially contributing to humidity-related pollutant behaviour. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; Kolappalur itself retains a largely rural character, but is experiencing increasing urbanization and associated vehicle emissions. The flat terrain restricts airflow, exacerbating pollution build-up, particularly during calm weather conditions. Dust from agricultural practices and unpaved roads further contributes to the particulate matter load, impacting local air quality and public health. The town’s location within a rain shadow area can also lead to prolonged dry periods, increasing dust suspension.

Kolappalur experiences a distinct tropical climate, with air quality fluctuating dramatically between the wet and dry seasons. The dry season, from February to May, sees a significant deterioration in air quality. High temperatures and stagnant air masses trap pollutants from agricultural burning, vehicle emissions, and nearby industrial sources. March and April are particularly challenging, with dust storms common and exacerbating particulate matter concentrations. The southwest monsoon, arriving in June, brings a temporary respite. Rainfall washes away pollutants, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, the monsoon can also lead to localised flooding, creating breeding grounds for mould and impacting respiratory health. Post-monsoon (September-November) sees a gradual return of drier conditions and increasing pollution. The northeast monsoon, from October to December, provides another period of cleaner air, though less pronounced than the southwest monsoon. November can be a transitional month with fluctuating conditions. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the peak dry season (March-May) and be mindful of potential mould exposure post-monsoon. Fog during cooler months can also trap pollutants near ground level.