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Perāvūrani, a town in Tamil Nadu, India, sits at coordinates 10.3000°N, 79.1800°E, within the fertile Cauvery Delta region. The terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of alluvial plains formed by the river system. This low-lying landscape, close to the Bay of Bengal, influences local climate and air quality. Perāvūrani’s population of approximately 22,084 reflects its status as a significant agricultural hub, primarily focused on paddy cultivation. Surrounding the town are extensive rice paddies, interspersed with coconut groves and smaller agricultural plots. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; Perāvūrani itself is a concentrated settlement, quickly giving way to rural farmland. While not directly within a major industrial belt, the broader Thanjavur district, of which Perāvūrani is a part, experiences industrial activity related to food processing and agricultural inputs. The proximity to the coast means the town is susceptible to sea breezes, which can both disperse and concentrate pollutants depending on prevailing wind directions. Dust from agricultural activities, particularly during harvest seasons, contributes significantly to particulate matter in the air. The flat topography limits natural dispersion, potentially exacerbating pollution episodes. The lack of significant elevation hinders vertical mixing of air masses, trapping pollutants near ground level.

Perāvūrani experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, roughly from January to May, sees a build-up of dust and particulate matter from agricultural practices and road traffic. Lower humidity and stable atmospheric conditions during these months can lead to pollutant concentration. March and April are typically the least favourable months for outdoor activity, particularly for those with respiratory conditions. The southwest monsoon arrives in June, bringing relief from the heat and washing away accumulated pollutants. However, increased humidity can also foster mould growth, impacting air quality for sensitive individuals. The monsoon season (June-September) generally offers cleaner air, though localised flooding can stir up sediment and contribute to microbial pollutants. October and November mark a transitional period, with decreasing rainfall and a gradual return to drier conditions. November often sees a slight increase in particulate matter as agricultural burning commences. The northeast monsoon, arriving in late November/December, brings another period of rainfall and improved air quality, though it can also lead to dampness and increased respiratory infections. Individuals with asthma or allergies should exercise caution during monsoon transitions and periods of high humidity.