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Maratturai, a coastal town in Tamil Nadu, India, situated at 11.1536°N, 79.5329°E, presents a unique geographic context influencing its air quality. With a population of 85,632, the town lies on the Bay of Bengal, benefitting from sea breezes but also vulnerable to marine aerosol contributions to particulate matter. The terrain is predominantly flat, typical of the Coromandel Coast, with a gentle slope towards the sea. This flatness hinders dispersion of pollutants. Maratturai is part of the larger Cauvery Delta region, surrounded by extensive agricultural lands – primarily rice paddies – which, while vital for the local economy, contribute to seasonal biomass burning and ammonia emissions. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural activity dominating the immediate hinterland. While not a major industrial hub itself, Maratturai’s proximity to industrial areas further inland, particularly around Cuddalore and Pondicherry, means it can experience transboundary pollution. The coastal location also means susceptibility to salt spray corrosion, impacting infrastructure and potentially releasing particulate matter. The town’s relatively low elevation exacerbates the impact of temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near ground level, especially during calmer weather conditions. Understanding these geographical factors is crucial for effective air quality management in Maratturai.

Maratturai experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, from January to May, sees consistently higher particulate matter concentrations due to reduced rainfall and increased dust from agricultural activities and construction. February and March are typically the worst months, with dry winds carrying pollutants inland. The southwest monsoon, arriving in June, brings temporary relief, washing away pollutants and improving air quality. However, increased humidity can also foster fungal growth, impacting respiratory health. The northeast monsoon, dominant from October to December, is the primary rainfall season, offering the most significant and sustained improvement in air quality. November and December are generally the clearest months. Post-monsoon, in January, residual moisture combined with cooler temperatures can lead to shallow temperature inversions, trapping pollutants. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season and periods of inversion. Biomass burning associated with agricultural practices after the monsoon also contributes to pollution spikes. Monitoring wind patterns and anticipating monsoon arrival are key to predicting and mitigating air quality issues.