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Tengampudūr, nestled in the Tiruchirappalli district of Tamil Nadu, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Kaveri Delta, a fertile and densely populated region. Located at approximately 8.1158° N latitude and 77.4579° E longitude, the town sits on relatively flat terrain, characteristic of the deltaic plains formed by the Kaveri River. Its elevation is low, generally below 30 meters above sea level, contributing to a humid subtropical climate and influencing atmospheric stability. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive rice paddies and other crops dominating the rural areas. This proximity to intensive agricultural practices introduces potential sources of air pollution, including ammonia emissions from fertilizers and particulate matter from crop residue burning, particularly during post-harvest seasons. Tengampudūr’s location within the broader Tiruchirappalli urban area creates an urban–rural gradient, with increasing levels of vehicular emissions and industrial activity as one approaches the city center. While Tengampudūr itself is a smaller town, it benefits from and is impacted by the regional industrial belt concentrated around Tiruchirappalli, which includes manufacturing and textile industries. The town’s relatively close proximity to the Kaveri River can, under certain meteorological conditions, influence local wind patterns and potentially disperse pollutants, although stagnant air conditions can also trap pollutants near the surface. The flat topography limits natural ventilation, potentially exacerbating air quality issues during periods of low wind speed.

Tengampudūr experiences a distinct tropical climate with a pronounced wet and dry season, significantly impacting air quality patterns. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, often witnesses a gradual increase in particulate matter concentrations. This is partly attributable to increased agricultural burning as farmers clear fields after the harvest, releasing smoke and soot into the atmosphere. Higher temperatures during this period also contribute to photochemical smog formation, although the relatively low elevation limits the intensity of this phenomenon. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings relief with increased rainfall, which naturally washes pollutants from the air and improves overall air quality. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to localized flooding, potentially releasing pollutants from inundated areas. October and November mark a transitional period, with decreasing rainfall and gradually increasing temperatures. Fog, common during these months, can trap pollutants near the ground, leading to periods of reduced visibility and elevated concentrations of fine particulate matter. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season and periods of fog, limiting outdoor exertion and wearing appropriate masks. The post-monsoon period (December-February) generally offers the best air quality, characterized by cooler temperatures and relatively low pollution levels, making it a favorable time for outdoor activities. Agricultural practices and weather patterns are the dominant drivers of air quality fluctuations in Tengampudūr, demanding careful monitoring and mitigation strategies.