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Mannūr, nestled in the Tiruppur district of Tamil Nadu, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Kaveri River basin. Located at approximately 10.8027° N latitude and 76.4698° E longitude, the town sits at a modest elevation of around 138 meters (453 feet) above sea level. The surrounding landscape is characterized by a blend of agricultural fields – predominantly cotton and sugarcane – and pockets of dry deciduous forests, typical of the South Indian plains. Mannūr’s proximity to the Noyyal River, a tributary of the Kaveri, influences local microclimates and contributes to humidity levels, though its impact on air quality is complex. The urban fabric of Mannūr is relatively compact, reflecting its smaller population of roughly 19,805. It exhibits a gradual urban-rural gradient, with denser residential areas concentrated around the town center and transitioning to agricultural land and scattered settlements outwards. The region’s economic activity is heavily reliant on textile manufacturing, a significant industry in Tiruppur district, and this industrial belt, though not directly adjacent to Mannūr, exerts an indirect influence on air quality through transportation emissions and potential fugitive emissions. The terrain is generally flat, which can exacerbate the accumulation of pollutants, particularly during periods of low wind speed. The prevailing winds, typically from the southwest during the monsoon season, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating airborne contaminants, impacting the overall air quality profile of Mannūr.

Mannūr’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by the region’s tropical climate and monsoon patterns. The dry season, spanning roughly from March to May, often witnesses a noticeable increase in particulate matter. This is attributable to several factors: reduced rainfall leading to less atmospheric cleansing, increased dust from agricultural activities like plowing and harvesting, and the intensification of industrial emissions due to higher temperatures and increased operational hours. Temperature inversions, common during these months, trap pollutants near the ground, further degrading air quality. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief as heavy rainfall washes away pollutants and strong winds disperse them. However, the onset of the monsoon can initially be accompanied by increased humidity and localized fog, which can temporarily reduce visibility and trap pollutants. The post-monsoon season (October-November) sees a gradual decrease in rainfall and a return to drier conditions, potentially leading to a renewed rise in particulate matter. December and January are generally cooler and experience relatively cleaner air, although occasional fog events can still impact air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, minimizing outdoor exertion and avoiding areas with high traffic density. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable during periods of elevated pollution.