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Nanthankulam, nestled in the Thiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu, India (8.3331° N, 77.8442° E), occupies a geographically significant position within the Coromandel Coast region. The city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the fertile plains of the Kaveri delta, situated approximately 60 kilometers north of Chennai. This low-lying landscape, averaging around 15 meters above sea level, contributes to a relatively stable atmospheric boundary layer, which can sometimes exacerbate pollution accumulation. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – primarily rice paddies and pulses – interspersed with small villages and pockets of scrubland. This proximity to intensive agricultural practices introduces sources of particulate matter, including crop residue burning during post-harvest seasons, a significant contributor to regional air pollution. The Bay of Bengal lies to the east, influencing local weather patterns and providing a potential pathway for marine aerosols. While the coastal breeze can offer some dispersion, its effectiveness is limited by the relatively small size of Nanthankulam and the surrounding urban-rural gradient. The city’s location within a developing industrial belt, with Chennai’s industrial zones lying to the south, means that Nanthankulam is susceptible to the advection of pollutants from larger industrial sources. The urban-rural transition zone surrounding Nanthankulam is characterized by increasing vehicular traffic and localized industrial activity, further impacting air quality. The flat topography and surrounding agricultural land create conditions where pollutants can linger, particularly during periods of low wind speed.

Nanthankulam’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season cycle, profoundly influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, is often characterized by elevated particulate matter concentrations. Reduced rainfall and increased temperatures lead to drier atmospheric conditions, promoting dust resuspension from agricultural fields and construction sites. Furthermore, the prevalence of temperature inversions during this period traps pollutants near the ground, hindering vertical mixing. The months of April and May are particularly challenging, with agricultural burning practices intensifying as farmers prepare fields for the monsoon. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief through frequent rainfall, effectively scrubbing the atmosphere and reducing pollutant levels. However, the onset of the monsoon can initially be accompanied by increased humidity and fog, which can temporarily trap pollutants. October and November represent a transitional period, with decreasing rainfall and gradually increasing temperatures. The post-monsoon season (December-February) is generally the most pleasant in terms of air quality, with cooler temperatures and more frequent wind patterns aiding in pollutant dispersion. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor exertion and monitoring for respiratory irritation. Agricultural workers are particularly vulnerable and should utilize appropriate protective equipment during burning activities. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can also mitigate exposure during periods of poor air quality.