The air pollution hazard is once again on the rise in the Hyderabad metropolis. Pollution, which was greatly reduced due to the lockdown is now increasing exponentially. Pollution in the city is now competing with Delhi, according to a recent study by the Center for Science and the Environment. It has been found that air pollution through motor vehicles is on the rise in the city and experts say they emit large amounts of nitrogen dioxide.

Air quality is declining in Hyderabad as well as surrounding districts. The level of air pollution has been rising for a few days. The effect of air pollution is increasing as temperatures drop. Temperatures drop between November and January. Air quality deteriorates further under such conditions. Doctors warn that the effect will be greater on children, the elderly, people with asthma and heart disease.

The vehicular traffic in the city has increased exponentially after the Lockdown. Air pollution is exacerbated by nitrogen dioxide emitted from vehicles. In Hyderabad, Rangareddy, and Sangareddy districts, microscopic dust particles are being recorded beyond the limit. According to PCB figures so far this month, the PM 2.5 level was 52.32 micrograms in Sanathnagar, 48.85 micrograms in IDA Bollaram, 58 in Zoo Park, 41.71 in ICRISAT, 37.48 in Central University, and 42.8 micrograms in IDA Pashamylaram. According to PCB standards, the maximum limit of PM 2.5 should not exceed 40 micrograms per cubic meter of air. But the situation is quite different.

City residents say the Department of Transportation, GHMC, and HMDA are not focusing on improving the public transportation system. Despite the fact that air pollution is known to be a serious threat to human survival, its control measures are still nominal. They are requesting the government to act at least now.