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Wandiwāsh, a coastal city in Tamil Nadu, India, occupies a geographically significant position approximately 70km south of Chennai. Situated at 12.5000°N, 79.6200°E, the city’s terrain is largely flat, characteristic of the Coromandel Coast, with an elevation averaging around 5 meters above sea level. This low-lying coastal location makes it particularly vulnerable to sea breezes and the humid tropical climate. The city borders the Bay of Bengal, influencing local weather patterns and contributing to salt spray, a minor component of particulate matter. Wandiwāsh is surrounded by agricultural land, primarily paddy fields and coconut groves, interspersed with smaller industrial units, particularly related to leather tanning and textiles. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with a noticeable increase in population density and industrial activity closer to the city centre. The proximity to Chennai, a major industrial hub, also contributes to regional pollution transport. The seasonal monsoon winds, both the southwest and northeast, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants, depending on wind direction and rainfall intensity. The city’s geography, therefore, creates a complex interplay of factors influencing its air quality, making it susceptible to both local emissions and regional transport of pollutants.

Wandiwāsh experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, from January to May, sees a build-up of particulate matter due to reduced rainfall and stagnant air. Hot, dry winds exacerbate dust suspension from agricultural lands and construction activities. February and March are typically the months with the poorest air quality. The southwest monsoon, arriving in June, brings temporary relief, washing away pollutants and improving air quality. However, increased humidity can also foster fungal growth, impacting respiratory health. The northeast monsoon, dominant from October to December, delivers the heaviest rainfall, offering the most significant period of clean air. However, this period can also see localised flooding, potentially releasing pollutants from stagnant water. November and December are generally the most favourable months for outdoor activity. During the transition periods – May/June and September/October – air quality is often unpredictable. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor exposure during the dry season and monitor conditions closely during monsoon transitions. Fog, common in cooler months, can trap pollutants near the ground, worsening conditions.