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Kudavāsal, a small town in the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu, India, sits at coordinates 10.8582°N, 79.4823°E. Its geography is characterised by relatively flat, coastal plains, typical of the Coromandel Coast. The town’s elevation is low, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. Kudavāsal is situated inland from the Bay of Bengal, approximately 15-20 kilometers from the coast, meaning it doesn’t benefit from strong sea breezes for pollutant dilution as much as directly coastal settlements. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with significant rice paddy cultivation and other seasonal crops. However, the broader Cuddalore district is also an emerging industrial hub, with chemical manufacturing and related industries concentrated further north, towards Panruti and Neyveli. This proximity to industrial activity is a key factor influencing Kudavāsal’s air quality. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp; Kudavāsal itself is a concentrated settlement, surrounded by agricultural land and smaller villages. Dust from agricultural practices, combined with emissions from local transport and small-scale industries, contribute to baseline pollution levels. The terrain offers little natural shielding from prevailing winds, meaning pollutants can accumulate during stagnant weather conditions. The local soil composition, rich in silt, also contributes to particulate matter when disturbed.

Kudavāsal experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, from February to May, sees rising temperatures and reduced rainfall, leading to increased dust suspension from agricultural lands and construction activities. This period often experiences the poorest air quality, exacerbated by temperature inversions trapping pollutants near the ground. Avoid prolonged outdoor exertion during these months, particularly for those with respiratory conditions. The southwest monsoon arrives in June, bringing significant rainfall that washes away accumulated pollutants, resulting in a temporary improvement in air quality. However, increased humidity can also foster mold growth, impacting sensitive individuals. The northeast monsoon, from October to December, is the primary rainfall season, offering the most consistently clean air. January and February, transitioning out of the northeast monsoon, are generally favourable for outdoor activities. During the monsoon seasons, while air is cleaner, increased dampness can exacerbate respiratory issues. Fog is infrequent but can occur during cooler mornings, trapping pollutants. Localised burning of agricultural residue after harvest, particularly in the post-monsoon period, can cause short-term spikes in particulate matter. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions – should monitor conditions closely and limit exposure during periods of poor air quality.