Industrial pollution emerges as top concern in Bachupally-Mallampet civic survey
Hyderabad: A recent civic issues survey conducted by residents of Bachupally and Mallampet has confirmed that industrial pollution remains the most pressing concern in the area.
The survey, organized by local citizens, revealed that 165 respondents identified industrial pollution and deteriorating air quality as the most serious issue. Inadequate road infrastructure and traffic hazards followed with 99 votes, while street dog menace and water supply issues received 61 and 58 votes, respectively.
Speaking to Hyderabad Mail, Rajesh P., one of the survey coordinators, confirmed that the survey was conducted across both Bachupally and Mallampet localities.
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Residents have long expressed frustration over poor air quality and alleged inaction from the Telangana Pollution Control Board (TGPCB). On Sunday, April 13, 2025, dozens of residents gathered near ITC, Bolarum, to protest against worsening air pollution. The protest was led by former corporator Vijayalakshmi, with demonstrators holding placards and chanting slogans such as “PCB down down” and “PCB wake up.”
“We have been complaining to the PCB authorities for a long time, but no concrete action has been taken,” a protester said. Many described the air as “unbreathable,” especially at night and early morning, due to emissions from nearby factories.
Residents pointed to industrial units in IDA Bollaram, Kazipalli, Bonthapalli, and Jinnaram areas known for pharma and chemical industries, as sources of toxic fumes that pose serious health risks.
The community has staged multiple protests, including rallies and road blockades, demanding stricter pollution control measures. A delegation from the Bachupally Area Welfare Association, along with Vijayalakshmi Subbarao, recently met with the Chief Environmental Engineer of the TGPCB in Sanath Nagar. They submitted a formal complaint highlighting the effects of unchecked chemical waste release by nearby factories.
Alongside pollution, poor road conditions have become a significant challenge, particularly in Mallampet. Residents say the situation has worsened following the premature opening of Exit 4A, which was launched without adequate planning.
Jagdish, a Mallampet resident, said, “The flyover construction in Bachupally has been going on for three years. The adjacent roads are full of potholes and are dangerous for commuters.”
He noted that the half-completed Exit 4A has led to increased traffic congestion, especially on weekends. “The newly laid roads are already damaged. An 80-foot-wide road was constructed but a building was left untouched, creating a major traffic bottleneck,” he added.
Jagdish also reported that poor road design has led to several accidents, including more than three fatalities.
In response to the ongoing civic issues, residents have announced a six-point action plan:
1. Online Signature Campaign: Launching a drive to collect 10,000 signatures.
2. Community Outreach: Visiting all 60 communities to guide residents in filing complaints with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
3. Legal Consultation: Engaging a senior High Court advocate to prepare for a Public Interest Litigation (PIL).
4. Mass Complaints: Planning to file around 100 complaints with NHRC and NGT in addition to the PIL.
5. Delhi Visit: Considering a visit to Delhi to present the complaints and documentation to NHRC and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
6. Protest Actions: Organizing a symbolic effigy burning followed by a rasta roko to intensify their protest.
Residents say they will continue their efforts until authorities take tangible action to address pollution, road safety, and infrastructure issues in the region.
