As winter tightens its grip on Hyderabad, the residents of Bachupally are raising urgent alarms over a familiar and dangerous foe: thick, chemical-laden fumes that have enveloped their neighbourhood with renewed intensity in recent weeks. The colder weather has created perfect conditions for the pollution to stagnate, making the air quality unbearable and raising serious health concerns for thousands.
Winter Inversion Traps Toxic Air, Health Crisis Deepens
The science behind the worsening situation is a meteorological phenomenon known as temperature inversion. During winter, colder air near the ground gets trapped under a layer of warmer air above. This acts like a lid, preventing pollutants from dispersing into the atmosphere. Consequently, the chemical fumes from the surrounding industrial units in the Bachupally area linger longer, feel more concentrated, and become far more suffocating for the local population.
For years, people living in Bachupally and nearby colonies have endured sharp, acrid odours drifting in from these industrial units. Locals estimate that nearly 5,000 people are exposed to this polluted air daily. The community reports a pattern of recurring health issues directly linked to the poor air quality. These include chronic sinusitis, frequent lung infections, persistent skin allergies, and debilitating headaches.
"Pollution Has Become Part of Daily Life": Residents Speak Out
The human cost of this environmental hazard is stark. Madan Mohan Reddy, a software professional and a 15-year resident of the area, shared his family's ordeal. "The smell is so potent on some evenings that it immediately triggers a headache," he said. He revealed that his wife has developed chronic sinus problems due to the persistent pollution. "Pollution has become part of our daily life now, and that's not how it should be," Reddy added, echoing the frustration of many.
Residents note that the problem escalates after sunset. The stench often mixes with the air around nearby water bodies like the lakes in Bowrampet, creating a more pervasive and nauseating environment. The threat extends beyond immediate discomfort, sparking fear for the younger generation. Lavanya K, a homemaker, highlighted the danger to children. "We worry not just for ourselves but for the hundreds of children studying in the 15 schools located in this stretch," she stated.
Frustration Mounts as Appeals to Authorities Yield Little Change
Despite persistent efforts, the community feels its pleas are falling on deaf ears. Locals have organised protests, submitted formal petitions, and repeatedly approached the Telangana State Pollution Control Board (TSPCB) seeking intervention and a permanent solution. However, they claim to have seen little tangible change or improvement in the situation on the ground.
When contacted, a TSPCB official, speaking on condition of anonymity, acknowledged the issue. The official stated that some industries in the vicinity had been inspected and corrective measures had been suggested. The official added that the matter remains under active review. This response offers little solace to residents who continue to breathe toxic air every day, waiting for concrete action to clear their skies and safeguard their health.
