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Vellodu, nestled in the western part of Tamil Nadu, India (10.3048°N, 77.9552°E), is a small city with a population of approximately 13,832. The terrain surrounding Vellodu is largely characterised by plains transitioning into the foothills of the Western Ghats, creating a gently undulating landscape. This proximity to the mountains influences local wind patterns and can contribute to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants. The city isn’t directly adjacent to major bodies of water, though smaller rivers and irrigation canals crisscross the agricultural lands. Vellodu is primarily an agricultural hub, with significant cultivation of cotton, sugarcane, and other crops. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, introduces particulate matter from field preparation, harvesting, and potential pesticide use. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city centre is densely populated, while the surrounding areas are dominated by farmland. Industrial activity is limited but growing, with small-scale textile and agricultural processing units contributing to localised emissions. The prevailing winds, influenced by the monsoon systems and the Western Ghats, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants within the city. The relatively flat terrain offers limited natural ventilation, exacerbating pollution during calm weather conditions. Understanding this geographic context is vital for addressing Vellodu’s air quality challenges.

Vellodu experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, roughly from January to April, sees a build-up of particulate matter due to dust from agricultural activities and reduced rainfall for atmospheric cleansing. Calm winds during these months exacerbate the situation, leading to poorer air quality. 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 significant rainfall that washes away pollutants, resulting in a temporary improvement in air quality. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of secondary pollutants. The post-monsoon season (October-November) often sees a resurgence of pollution as agricultural burning increases after the harvest. November can be problematic. The northeast monsoon, arriving in late October/November, provides another period of cleansing, though it can also bring localised flooding and associated issues. During the wetter months, mould spores become a concern for allergy sufferers. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during peak pollution periods and consider using air purifiers indoors.