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Kombai, a small town nestled within the Tiruchirappalli district of Tamil Nadu, India, occupies a relatively flat terrain at approximately 9.85°N latitude and 77.30°E longitude. Its location, roughly 20km south of Tiruchirappalli city, places it within the fertile Kaveri Delta region. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, characterized by extensive paddy fields and coconut groves, typical of this part of South India. The town’s elevation is low, averaging around 85 meters above sea level, contributing to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. While not directly on the Kaveri River itself, Kombai benefits from the river’s irrigation network and is influenced by the humidity it provides. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; Kombai retains a largely rural character, but is increasingly influenced by the expanding urban sprawl of Tiruchirappalli. This proximity to a larger industrial and commercial hub is a key factor impacting air quality. The region experiences a tropical climate, with seasonal variations in wind patterns. The lack of significant topographical features – hills or mountains – hinders the flushing out of trapped pollutants, making Kombai susceptible to localised air quality issues, particularly from agricultural practices like stubble burning and vehicular emissions from the growing road network connecting it to Tiruchirappalli.

Kombai’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the monsoon and prevailing winds. The northeast monsoon, arriving in October and lasting through December, brings relief from accumulated pollutants through rainfall and increased wind speeds, generally resulting in cleaner air. However, the increased humidity can also foster fungal growth, impacting respiratory health. January to March are typically drier months, with stagnant air and temperature inversions trapping pollutants near the ground, leading to a noticeable decline in air quality. This period sees increased dust from agricultural activities and potential smoke from biomass burning. April and May are the hottest months, exacerbating pollution as higher temperatures promote the formation of ground-level ozone. The southwest monsoon, from June to September, offers another period of cleansing rains, though localised flooding can disrupt transportation and potentially spread pollutants. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry summer months and periods of stagnant air. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; winds from the north and west often carry pollutants from Tiruchirappalli. Avoiding peak traffic hours can also minimise exposure.