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Mohanūr, a municipality in Namakkal district, Tamil Nadu, India, occupies a relatively flat terrain at an elevation of approximately 220 meters above sea level. Its coordinates (11.0594° N, 78.1397° E) place it within the fertile Kaveri River basin, a region historically dominated by agricultural activity. The city is situated roughly 35 kilometers southwest of Salem and benefits from its position along major transportation corridors, including National Highway 44, facilitating regional connectivity. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, characterized by paddy fields, coconut groves, and other rain-fed crops. Mohanūr’s air quality is significantly influenced by this agrarian character, with seasonal burning of agricultural residue contributing to particulate matter. However, the growing presence of small-scale industries, particularly related to textile processing and poultry farming, introduces localized pollution sources. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with surrounding villages maintaining a predominantly agricultural lifestyle. Proximity to the Kaveri River provides some natural dispersion, but also contributes to humidity, potentially exacerbating the effects of pollutants during temperature inversions. The lack of significant topographical barriers allows for relatively easy wind flow, but also means pollutants can be transported from and to neighboring industrial areas.

Mohanūr experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Air quality generally deteriorates during the dry season (November to May), peaking in March and April. This is due to reduced rainfall, leading to dust suspension from agricultural lands and increased concentration of pollutants from local industries. Temperature inversions are common during the cooler months of December and January, trapping pollutants near the ground. The southwest monsoon (June to September) brings significant rainfall, effectively washing away pollutants and improving air quality considerably. However, increased humidity during the monsoon can also promote the formation of secondary pollutants. October sees a transitional period with moderate pollution levels. For individuals with respiratory sensitivities, avoiding outdoor activity during the peak dry season months of March and April is advisable. The monsoon months offer the cleanest air, making them ideal for outdoor pursuits. During periods of stagnant air, particularly in the mornings, sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity. Monitoring local conditions and heeding health advisories is crucial throughout the year.