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Pallikaranai, nestled in the Kancheepuram district of Tamil Nadu, India, occupies a unique geographic position within the Chennai Metropolitan Area. Located at 12.9333°N latitude and 80.2022°E longitude, the city’s terrain is largely flat, characteristic of the Coromandel Coast. Its elevation is minimal, averaging around 5 meters above sea level, making it susceptible to coastal influences. Historically, Pallikaranai was renowned for its extensive marshland, a vital freshwater ecosystem. However, rapid urbanisation has significantly altered this landscape, converting much of the marsh into residential and industrial areas. This transformation directly impacts air quality. The city is situated close to the Bay of Bengal, experiencing humid tropical conditions. Surrounding Pallikaranai are agricultural lands to the west and south, and increasingly, industrial zones along the Grand Southern Trunk Road (NH45). The urban-rural gradient is steep, with dense urban sprawl radiating outwards from Chennai. The proximity to major roadways and industrial activity contributes to localised pollution hotspots. The loss of the marshland, which once acted as a natural filter, exacerbates the issue, reducing the area’s capacity to absorb pollutants and regulate air flow. This interplay of factors makes Pallikaranai particularly vulnerable to air quality challenges.

Pallikaranai’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the monsoon cycles and prevailing winds. The northeast monsoon, from October to December, brings intermittent rainfall which temporarily improves air quality by washing away particulate matter. However, increased humidity can also trap pollutants near the ground. January to March sees drier conditions and a build-up of pollutants, particularly from vehicular emissions and local industries, as temperature inversions become more frequent, hindering vertical dispersion. These months are generally less favourable for outdoor activity, especially for those with respiratory conditions. The pre-monsoon months of April and May are the most challenging, with high temperatures and stagnant air leading to peak pollution levels. Dust storms are also common during this period. The southwest monsoon, from June to September, offers a respite, with consistent rainfall cleansing the atmosphere. However, increased traffic congestion due to flooding can offset some of these gains. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular illnesses – should limit outdoor exposure during the hot, dry months and periods of high humidity. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; winds from industrial areas will carry higher concentrations of pollutants.