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Marungūr, a town in Tamil Nadu, India, rests at coordinates 8.1721°N, 77.5037°E, and supports a population of approximately 13,335. Geographically, the area is characterised by relatively flat coastal plains, typical of the Coromandel Coast. The terrain is predominantly alluvial, formed by the Kaveri River delta system, though Marungūr itself isn’t directly on the main river channel but benefits from its fertile influence. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – primarily rice paddies – interspersed with coconut groves and scattered rural settlements. The proximity to the Bay of Bengal, roughly 15-20km east, introduces significant humidity and influences local wind patterns. While Marungūr isn’t a major industrial hub, the broader Thanjavur district, of which it is a part, experiences agricultural processing and small-scale manufacturing. This, coupled with vehicular emissions from the East Coast Road (NH45A) which passes nearby, contributes to localised air pollution. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; Marungūr represents a transition zone, experiencing increasing density and activity compared to the surrounding villages. This transition impacts air quality as traditional biomass burning for cooking and heating persists alongside modern emissions. The low elevation and coastal location can exacerbate pollution episodes due to limited atmospheric dispersion.

Marungūr experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons heavily influencing air quality. The northeast monsoon, from October to December, brings heavy rainfall, which temporarily improves air quality by washing away particulate matter. However, increased humidity can also foster mould growth, impacting respiratory health. January to March are generally drier with clearer skies, offering the most favourable conditions for outdoor activity, though dust from agricultural practices can be present. The pre-monsoon months of April and May are the most challenging. Rising temperatures create stable atmospheric conditions, trapping pollutants near the ground. Strong winds are less frequent, hindering dispersion. Agricultural burning, preparing fields for the monsoon, significantly elevates particulate matter levels. August and September, following the southwest monsoon’s retreat, see a resurgence of humidity and potential for stagnant air. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during April-May and monitor conditions closely during the monsoon transitions. Avoiding peak traffic hours and using masks when necessary are recommended precautions. The interplay of monsoon winds, temperature, and agricultural practices dictates the annual air quality cycle.