Despite significant financial investments aimed at improving air quality in Hyderabad, the city continues to grapple with alarmingly high pollution levels. As part of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), the state of Telangana received ₹400 crore in 2019 with a target to reduce particulate matter (PM) concentrations by 20-30% by 2024 in its most polluted areas, including Hyderabad, Nalgonda, Patancheru, and Sangareddy. However, recent data indicates that these targets remain elusive, raising questions about the efficacy of the initiatives undertaken.
According to the Pollution Control Board, the average concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 — the primary pollutants — have consistently ranged between 80 and 120, and 100 and 150 µg/m³, respectively, from 2019 onwards. These figures starkly contrast with the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) guidelines of 5 µg/m³ for PM2.5 and 15 µg/m³ for PM10. Moreover, they exceed the Indian standards of 40 µg/m³ and 60 µg/m³, highlighting a critical public health concern.
The NCAP’s action plan, developed by various government departments including the State Pollution Control Board, RTC, and GHMC, outlined a comprehensive approach to address the pollution crisis. Measures included traffic decongestion, enhancement of road transport infrastructure, control of dust pollution from quarry industries, relocation of chemical industries, and prevention of garbage burning. Despite these strategies, the anticipated improvements in air quality have not materialised, primarily due to a lack of effective implementation and inter-departmental coordination. Environmentalists and urban planning experts have criticised the execution of the action plan. They argue that while the measures are theoretically sound, the real challenge lies in sustained follow-up and maintenance. An urban planning expert pointed out, “Apart from following up, effective implementation requires coordination of all departments and also maintenance of the infrastructure that was introduced.”
In response to these concerns, officials from various departments have highlighted ongoing initiatives. An official from the GHMC’s urban planning wing mentioned significant infrastructural projects, such as the widening of over 100 roads and junctions within GHMC limits, including major thoroughfares like Chintalkunta Checkpost junction and Kamineni Hospital Junction. Similarly, the urban diversity wing has been actively involved in greening initiatives, with nearly 2,000 green spaces, 180 traffic islands, and the development of 50 new colony parks.
Despite these efforts, the persistent high levels of pollution suggest that more robust and cohesive measures are needed to achieve the desired air quality improvements. The situation underscores the need for a more integrated approach, ensuring that all stakeholders work in unison to address one of Hyderabad’s most pressing environmental challenges. The city’s ongoing struggle with air pollution serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in achieving sustainable urban development.
