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Puliyampatti, a small town in Tamil Nadu, India, is situated at coordinates 11.6653°N, 77.8041°E, nestled within the broader Kongu Nadu region. The terrain is largely characterised by relatively flat plains, typical of the region’s agricultural heartland, with a gentle slope towards the south. The town’s elevation is modest, contributing to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. Surrounding Puliyampatti is a predominantly rural landscape dominated by agricultural fields – primarily coconut, banana, and turmeric cultivation – interspersed with small villages. The Noyyal River, a tributary of the Kaveri, flows nearby, though its water quality and flow are subject to seasonal variations and agricultural runoff. While not directly within a major industrial belt, Puliyampatti experiences indirect impacts from industrial activity in nearby Erode and Tiruppur, known for textile production. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; Puliyampatti itself is a developing urban centre, but quickly transitions to agricultural land. This proximity to agricultural practices introduces potential sources of particulate matter from dust and biomass burning, while the lack of significant wind corridors can exacerbate localised pollution. The town’s location, shielded by the Western Ghats to the west, limits the influence of strong sea breezes that could otherwise help clear the air.

Puliyampatti’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the monsoon and agricultural cycles. The pre-monsoon months of April and May see a peak in pollution, driven by high temperatures, low humidity, and widespread agricultural burning to clear fields for the upcoming season. Dust storms are also common during this period, contributing to elevated particulate matter. The southwest monsoon, arriving in June and lasting through September, brings temporary relief. Rainfall washes away pollutants, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, stagnant conditions during breaks in the monsoon can lead to localised build-up of pollutants. October and November witness a gradual deterioration as the monsoon recedes and agricultural activities resume, including fertiliser application. The winter months, December to February, are generally the most favourable for air quality, with cooler temperatures and calmer winds promoting some dispersion. However, temperature inversions can trap pollutants near the ground. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods. Monitoring local weather patterns and avoiding peak agricultural burning times is advisable.