Ground Report: Public outcry in Bachupally over toxic air from industries, stray dogs, traffic woes

Hyderabad: Residents of Bachupally, Mallampet, Bowrampet and Nizampet, who moved to these rapidly developing suburbs hoping for a peaceful life, now find themselves battling toxic air pollution, stray dog threats and worsening traffic congestion.

Locals say their dreams of a comfortable urban lifestyle have turned into daily struggles for clean air, safety and hassle-free commuting.

Industries blamed for rising pollution

People allege that chemical factories in the nearby Bollaram and Kazipally industrial zones are releasing toxic emissions, especially at night, making the air pungent and suffocating.

“Many elderly people and children have been hospitalised with breathing problems and allergies. The air quality is deteriorating rapidly,” said Naresh, a Bachupally resident.

Despite numerous complaints, residents claim Pollution Control Board (PCB) inspections remain superficial. “Readings appear normal during official visits, but the ground reality is different,” said another resident.

Residents stage protests, demand action

Frustrated by inaction, residents recently organised mass rallies demanding strict enforcement of pollution norms. Former corporator Vijayalakshmi, who led several protests, warned that agitations would intensify if authorities remained negligent.

MLC Shambipur Raju raised the issue in the Legislative Council, urging immediate government intervention to safeguard public health.

Stray dogs threaten children’s safety

Adding to pollution woes, stray dog packs roam freely, posing daily threats to residents.

“Five pre-primary schools operate here. Children’s safety is at risk every day,” said a local resident, demanding sterilisation drives and relocation measures.

Traffic chaos despite new flyover

Despite a new flyover from Mamata College to Reliance Trends, traffic congestion remains severe due to unregulated vehicular movement. ORR Exit-4 is just two kilometres away, but infrastructure planning has failed to match rapid growth.

“The area has seen over 300 per cent growth in households without any comprehensive traffic management. Unscientific planning is causing chaos and delays,” said former corporator Subba Rao, calling for long-term solutions alongside pollution control measures.

Residents fear for their health

Residents report that the chemical odour is particularly strong in the evenings, disrupting daily routines.

“The smell is unbearable. We’ve raised this matter countless times, but no one seems to listen,” said Ch Mallikarjun Yadav, a retired employee.

K Satyavati, a mother of two from Mallampeta, said she has been suffering from persistent headaches and breathing difficulties. “My doctor advised me to relocate, but that is not feasible for everyone,” she said.

While the Pollution Control Board claims inspections and corrective measures are ongoing, residents remain sceptical, recalling similar assurances in the past.

“We are considering bigger protests or even legal action if our concerns continue to be ignored,” warned Sarojini, a homemaker from Nallagandla.

PCB acknowledges complaints, cites urban expansion

A senior PCB official, speaking on condition of anonymity, admitted receiving multiple complaints but attributed the issue to residential growth near long-established factories.

“These industries have been here for 20-30 years. As the city expands, residential areas are coming closer to industrial zones. Some odour may be present, but it shouldn’t cause severe discomfort,” the official said.

He added that by the time inspection teams arrive, the chemical smell often dissipates. “We are monitoring air quality, but results take four to five days. Inspections are underway to check if pollution control systems are functioning properly. Action will be taken against violators,” he assured.

The official also said shifting some factories is being discussed, though no concrete decisions have been made yet.