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Madukkarai, nestled in the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu, India, occupies a strategically important location at approximately 10.9057° N, 76.9634° E. The town’s geography is characterized by a gradual transition from the Western Ghats foothills to the plains of the Kaveri delta, resulting in a gently undulating terrain. Elevation ranges from roughly 250 to 350 meters above sea level. This position creates a unique microclimate influenced by both the mountain ranges and the coastal weather patterns. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – predominantly sugarcane, paddy, and coconut plantations – interspersed with pockets of dry deciduous forests on the higher slopes. Madukkarai’s proximity to the Noyyal River, though now significantly diminished in flow, historically provided a vital water source and influenced local humidity. The town serves as a crucial link between Coimbatore, a major industrial hub, and the rural hinterland. This connectivity has fostered a gradual urban–rural gradient, with Madukkarai exhibiting characteristics of both. The presence of several brick kilns and small-scale industries within and around Madukkarai, coupled with agricultural burning practices during harvest seasons, significantly impacts the local air quality. The prevailing winds, often originating from the west, can carry pollutants from industrial areas to the east, while stagnant air conditions, particularly during certain times of the year, exacerbate the problem. The town’s location, therefore, presents a complex interplay of natural and anthropogenic factors affecting its atmospheric environment.

Madukkarai’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s tropical climate and monsoon cycles. The southwest monsoon (June to September) generally brings relief, with increased rainfall and wind speeds dispersing pollutants. However, the onset of the monsoon can initially be accompanied by increased humidity and fog, which can trap pollutants close to the ground. The post-monsoon season (October-November) often sees a rise in air quality concerns as agricultural burning intensifies, coinciding with the harvest of crops like sugarcane and paddy. Farmers often resort to burning crop residue to clear fields quickly, releasing significant particulate matter into the atmosphere. The dry season (December to March) is typically the most challenging period. Temperature inversions, common during these cooler months, trap pollutants near the surface, leading to stagnant air and elevated concentrations. Fog, frequently occurring in the mornings, further exacerbates this issue. April and May mark the pre-monsoon season, characterized by rising temperatures and decreasing rainfall, which can contribute to increased levels of ozone and particulate matter. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season and post-monsoon periods, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution hours. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable. Awareness campaigns promoting alternative agricultural practices, such as composting and no-till farming, are crucial to mitigate the impact of seasonal burning.