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Tudiyalūr, nestled in the Erode district of Tamil Nadu, India (11.0816° N, 76.9446° E), occupies a geographically significant position within the Kaveri Delta region. The town’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the fertile alluvial plains formed by the Kaveri River and its tributaries. This flat landscape, while conducive to agriculture, presents challenges regarding air quality dispersion, particularly during periods of stagnant atmospheric conditions. Tudiyalūr sits at a relatively low elevation, approximately 115 meters above sea level, further limiting vertical mixing of pollutants. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – predominantly rice and sugarcane – interspersed with smaller villages and pockets of scrubland. The proximity to the Noyyal River, though providing a vital water source, can also contribute to localized humidity, potentially trapping pollutants close to the ground. The urban–rural gradient around Tudiyalūr is gradual; the town itself is a small, developing urban center, with agricultural activities dominating the immediate periphery. Further afield, the industrial belt of Erode, known for its textile and cotton processing industries, exerts an influence on regional air quality, with potential for pollutants to be transported to Tudiyalūr depending on prevailing wind patterns. The deltaic location means the town is susceptible to seasonal flooding, which can temporarily redistribute particulate matter and influence local air quality dynamics. The lack of significant topographical features hinders natural ventilation, making the town reliant on meteorological conditions for air quality improvement.

Tudiyalūr experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, significantly impacting its air quality profile. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, often witnesses a noticeable increase in particulate matter. This is largely attributed to increased agricultural burning – farmers clearing crop residue – combined with higher temperatures that exacerbate photochemical smog formation. The lack of rainfall during these months reduces atmospheric cleansing, allowing pollutants to accumulate. Conversely, the southwest monsoon season (June to September) brings substantial rainfall, effectively washing away particulate matter and significantly improving air quality. However, the monsoon can also introduce humidity, which, under certain conditions, can trap pollutants near the ground, especially during periods of reduced wind speed. The northeast monsoon (October to December) brings a second, albeit less intense, period of rainfall, offering further respite from pollution. Fog, common during the cooler months (December-January), can trap pollutants, creating localized pockets of poor air quality, particularly in the mornings. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season and periods of fog, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure and considering the use of air purifiers indoors. The transitional periods between seasons – spring and autumn – can be unpredictable, with fluctuating pollution levels influenced by a combination of factors including wind patterns and agricultural practices. Maintaining awareness of local weather conditions and minimizing exposure during periods of stagnant air is advisable.