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Parapatti, nestled in the Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu, India (12.1083° N, 78.0198° E), occupies a geographically significant position within the broader South Indian landscape. The town sits at an elevation of approximately 650 meters above sea level, contributing to a relatively cooler climate compared to coastal regions. Parapatti’s terrain is characterized by undulating hills and plains, typical of the Eastern Ghats foothills, influencing local wind patterns and potential for air stagnation. The surrounding landscape is predominantly rural, comprising agricultural fields – primarily cultivating crops like paddy, ragi, and groundnut – interspersed with scrubland and rocky outcrops. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to seasonal particulate matter pollution, particularly during harvest periods when burning of crop residue is practiced. The town’s proximity to the Cauvery River, though not directly adjacent, influences regional humidity and can impact the dispersion of pollutants. Further west, the Hogenakkal Falls, a significant tourist attraction, highlights the region’s geological features and water resources. The urban–rural gradient around Parapatti is gradual; the town itself is relatively small, with a population of just under 15,000, minimizing industrial emissions directly within the town limits. However, Dharmapuri, a larger urban center approximately 20 kilometers away, represents a potential source of regional air pollution, with its industrial belt and increased vehicular traffic impacting Parapatti’s air quality, especially during periods of low wind speed. The topography and prevailing winds dictate how pollutants from Dharmapuri and surrounding agricultural areas are transported to Parapatti.

Parapatti’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, significantly influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, is characterized by high temperatures and reduced rainfall. This period often witnesses a noticeable increase in particulate matter pollution. The lack of rainfall means fewer opportunities for atmospheric cleansing, and the increased temperatures promote the formation of photochemical smog, particularly when combined with stagnant air. Temperature inversions, common during these months, trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the problem. Agricultural burning, prevalent during the post-harvest period (April-May), contributes significantly to the particulate load. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief with frequent rainfall, effectively washing away pollutants and improving air quality. However, the onset of the monsoon can initially be accompanied by increased humidity and fog, which can temporarily reduce visibility and trap pollutants. October and November represent a transitional period, with decreasing rainfall and gradually increasing temperatures, potentially leading to a slow deterioration in air quality. December and January are generally cooler and drier, with relatively stable air quality, though occasional fog events can still impact visibility and pollutant dispersion. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution periods and ensuring adequate ventilation indoors. Maintaining indoor air quality through filtration can also be beneficial.