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Nanjai Kilābādi, nestled in the Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the broader Deccan Plateau region. Located at approximately 11.2658° N latitude and 77.7700° E longitude, the town’s terrain is characterized by gently undulating hills and plains, typical of the region's transition zone between the Western Ghats and the drier interior. The elevation, though modest, contributes to localized microclimates and influences air circulation patterns. The surrounding landscape is predominantly rural, comprising agricultural fields cultivating crops like paddy, ragi, and groundnut, interspersed with scrubland and scattered groves of native trees. This proximity to agricultural zones introduces potential sources of particulate matter, particularly during harvest seasons when burning of crop residue can occur. While Nanjai Kilābādi itself is a relatively small settlement with a population of 13,234, it lies within a gradually expanding urban–rural gradient, influenced by the larger regional centers. The town’s location doesn’t place it directly adjacent to major industrial belts, however, the broader Dharmapuri district experiences some industrial activity related to limestone mining and textile processing, which can contribute to regional air pollution episodes. The town’s distance from significant bodies of water, such as the Cauvery River, limits the moderating influence of humidity on air quality, potentially exacerbating the effects of dry, dusty conditions. The prevailing wind patterns, generally from the west, can transport pollutants from surrounding areas, impacting local air quality.

Nanjai Kilābādi experiences a tropical wet-dry climate, significantly influencing its air quality throughout the year. The monsoon season, typically spanning June to September, brings relief from accumulated pollutants as rainfall effectively washes particulate matter from the atmosphere. However, the onset of the monsoon can initially be accompanied by increased humidity, which can trap pollutants closer to the ground, leading to temporary periods of reduced visibility. The post-monsoon months (October-November) often see a gradual improvement in air quality as winds become more consistent and rainfall decreases. The dry season, from December to May, presents the most challenging period for air quality. With reduced rainfall and increased temperatures, atmospheric stability often leads to temperature inversions, particularly during the early morning hours. These inversions trap pollutants near the surface, intensifying their concentration. Agricultural burning, a common practice during the pre-harvest period (January-February), contributes significantly to particulate matter pollution. Dust storms, common during March and April, further degrade air quality. The hot, dry winds exacerbate respiratory issues. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during these months, especially during peak pollution hours. During the monsoon months, while overall air quality improves, those with allergies may experience increased discomfort due to high humidity. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can be beneficial throughout the year, with particular emphasis during the dry season.