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Mattigiri, nestled in the Mandya district of Tamil Nadu, India (coordinates 12.6980° N, 77.8083° E), occupies a geographically significant position within the Kaveri River basin. The town’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the fertile plains of the Deccan Plateau, with gentle undulations defining the surrounding landscape. Its elevation, relatively low at approximately 134 meters above sea level, contributes to a stable atmospheric layer, which can, under certain conditions, exacerbate pollution accumulation. Mattigiri’s proximity to the Kaveri River, a vital waterway, influences local humidity and temperature patterns, impacting pollutant dispersion. The region is heavily agricultural, with sugarcane, rice, and horticultural crops dominating the rural landscape surrounding Mattigiri. This agricultural activity, while economically crucial, introduces sources of air pollution through biomass burning during harvest seasons and the use of fertilizers. Further afield, the industrial belt of Bangalore, approximately 160 kilometers north, exerts an indirect influence, occasionally contributing to transported pollutants. The urban-rural gradient around Mattigiri is gradual, with smaller villages and agricultural fields seamlessly blending into the town’s periphery. The lack of significant topographical barriers, combined with the prevailing wind patterns, means that pollutants generated locally or transported from distant sources can readily circulate within the town and its immediate surroundings, impacting air quality. The flat terrain also limits natural ventilation, potentially trapping pollutants during periods of stagnant air.

Mattigiri’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, is characterized by high temperatures and low humidity. This period often witnesses a noticeable increase in particulate matter pollution, largely attributable to agricultural practices. Biomass burning, used for clearing fields and crop residue disposal, releases significant quantities of smoke and particulate matter into the atmosphere. The lack of rainfall during these months allows these pollutants to persist, accumulating over time. Conversely, the monsoon season, from June to October, brings relief through frequent rainfall, effectively washing away pollutants and significantly improving air quality. Strong winds associated with the monsoon also aid in dispersing pollutants. The transitional months of November and February experience cooler temperatures and increased fog, particularly in the mornings. This fog traps pollutants near the ground, leading to temporary spikes in localized air pollution. During these periods, sensitive individuals, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, should limit prolonged outdoor exposure, especially during peak fog hours. The summer months (March-May) demand caution due to the combined effects of high temperatures and agricultural burning. While the monsoon offers respite, the transitional periods require vigilance, and awareness of potential localized pollution events is crucial for public health. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can be beneficial during periods of elevated pollution.