Hyderabad: Air pollution in Hyderabad triggered widespread concern after the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) surged to 220, indicating a hazardous environment. The spike resulted from a sharp rise in PM10 and PM2.5 particles, causing breathing distress among older people, children and asthma patients across several areas.
Air quality is generally considered healthy below an AQI of 50 and acceptable up to 100. However, air pollution in Hyderabad crossed the danger threshold, raising alarm among residents. Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data showed critically high pollution levels in Bollaram, Patancheru, HCU, Somajiguda and Zoo Park localities.
Air pollution in Hyderabad is linked to industry and traffic
Environmental experts from JNTU said emissions from industrial zones and heavy vehicular movement were the primary reasons behind the worsening air pollution in Hyderabad. They warned that pollution levels could intensify during winter due to reduced air circulation.
CPCB data further indicated that Sanathnagar, Malakpet, Nacharam and Kokapet were moving from satisfactory air quality to unsafe conditions. Doctors advised older people and children to remain indoors when possible. They also urged residents to wear masks when venturing out, especially those with respiratory illnesses.
Meanwhile, Pollution Control Board (PCB) officials downplayed the severity of air pollution in Hyderabad. They stated that the city’s air quality remained largely satisfactory. Officials also claimed that certain third-party mobile applications were displaying inflated AQI readings beyond actual measurements.