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Terku Valliyūr, a small town in Tamil Nadu, India, sits at coordinates 8.3570°N, 77.6087°E, nestled within the undulating terrain of the southern Indian plains. With a population of approximately 11,090, it’s a predominantly rural settlement, though increasingly connected to larger urban centres. The landscape surrounding Terku Valliyūr is characterised by agricultural lands, primarily dedicated to rain-fed farming, interspersed with patches of scrubland and palmyra palm groves. The town’s elevation is relatively low, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. It isn’t directly adjacent to a major body of water, though smaller irrigation tanks and seasonal streams are present. The nearest significant coastline is several kilometers east. While not a major industrial hub itself, Terku Valliyūr’s air quality is influenced by regional industrial activity concentrated further north along the coast and in larger towns like Tirunelveli. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; air quality generally degrades as one approaches the town centre due to localised traffic and domestic fuel burning. Dust from agricultural practices and unpaved roads also contributes significantly to particulate matter concentrations. The prevailing wind patterns, influenced by the seasonal monsoon, play a crucial role in pollutant transport and dispersion, though these can be variable.

Terku Valliyūr experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, roughly from February to May, sees a build-up of particulate matter due to dust from agricultural activities, road dust, and increased reliance on biomass burning for cooking. High temperatures and stable atmospheric conditions during this period exacerbate pollution, creating a haze. April and May 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 much of the accumulated dust, leading to a temporary improvement in air quality. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of secondary pollutants. Post-monsoon (September-November) sees a moderate air quality, with lingering moisture and calmer winds. The northeast monsoon, from October to December, brings further rainfall, again improving air quality, but can also lead to localised flooding and increased mould spore counts. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular illnesses – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season and monitor conditions closely during monsoon periods.