Hyderabad faces rising e-waste threat
HYDERABAD: Electronic waste is piling up in the city each year, even as experts say it contains valuable metals such as gold, platinum, copper and selenium.
According to estimates, recycling one tonne of mobile phones can yield up to 1.5 kg of gold. At current market prices, the value of that gold is around ₹1.50 crore. Experts say several premium branded phones contain higher quantities of gold.
Despite this potential, many people discard old mobile phones, computers and televisions along with regular household waste. Informal stall operators also mix electronic waste with general garbage instead of sending it for recycling.
Toxic metals pose health risks
Experts warn that heavy metals such as lead, mercury and cadmium from e-waste can seep into the soil. These substances may affect the human brain and nervous system if not handled properly.
“There is good revenue potential if these materials are recycled scientifically. Many people are unaware of this. If value is created for e-waste, people will voluntarily take it to recycling centres,” said Prasanna Kumar, Senior Scientist at the Pollution Control Board.
Recycling capacity underused
In the state, 26 authorised agencies handle e-waste management. Together, they have an annual recycling capacity of 4,41,180 tonnes. In addition, the Pollution Control Board has granted permission to refurbish 16,930 tonnes of electronic equipment every year for reuse.
However, experts say implementation remains weak. Thousands of tonnes of e-waste accumulate annually in Hyderabad, but collection and recycling levels remain low.
The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation has set up collection points in residential colonies to encourage proper disposal. Response from the public has been limited. Critics say officials have not invested enough effort in spreading awareness.
The Pollution Control Board estimates that only about 30% of e-waste is recycled nationwide. The rate in Telangana is believed to be lower.
Environmental experts suggest involving celebrities, public representatives and social media influencers in awareness campaigns. They also recommend door-to-door collection of e-waste, similar to household garbage collection, to reduce long-term environmental risks.
