Hyderabad: Air pollution in Hyderabad triggered concern after the city’s Air Quality Index surged to 220, signalling unhealthy conditions across several localities.
The spike followed a sharp rise in PM10 and PM2.5 particulate matter. As a result, older people, children and asthma patients reported breathing discomfort in multiple areas of the city.
According to Central Pollution Control Board data, air quality deteriorated sharply in Bollaram, Patancheru, HCU, Somajiguda and Zoo Park. Meanwhile, residents expressed alarm as pollution levels crossed the acceptable threshold of 100.
Experts noted that air quality remains healthy below an AQI of 50 and acceptable up to 100. However, air pollution in Hyderabad crossed the danger mark, especially in industrial and high-traffic zones.
Environmental experts from JNTU attributed the deterioration to emissions from industrial clusters and heavy vehicular movement. Moreover, they warned that winter conditions could worsen pollution due to reduced air circulation.
Air pollution in Hyderabad raises health advisory and official response
CPCB data also showed that Sanathnagar, Malakpet, Nacharam and Kokapet were shifting from satisfactory levels to unsafe air quality. Consequently, doctors advised older people and children to remain indoors when possible.
Doctors further urged residents to wear masks while stepping out, particularly those with respiratory illnesses. In addition, they recommended limiting outdoor physical activity during peak pollution hours.
Meanwhile, Pollution Control Board officials downplayed the severity of the situation. They stated that overall air quality remained largely satisfactory and claimed that some third-party mobile applications displayed inflated AQI readings beyond official measurements.
Despite the assurance, health experts reiterated the need for caution. Therefore, air pollution in Hyderabad remains under close watch as authorities monitor particulate levels in the coming days.
