Jawaharnagar dump overtakes Golconda, ranks fourth globally
HYDERABAD: The Jawaharnagar dumping yard in Medchal district has been ranked the fourth most polluting site globally, according to a study under the “Stop Methane Project” by University of California, Los Angeles.
The study found that the site releases about 5.9 tonnes of methane per hour, equivalent to emissions from 12 lakh cars. Methane is estimated to be 86 times more harmful than carbon dioxide.
Garbage exceeds Golconda Fort height
Spread across 393.54 acres in Kapra mandal, dumping at Jawaharnagar began in 1994. Daily waste has risen from 2,500–3,000 tonnes earlier to 8,000–10,000 tonnes now.
Officials said 1.4 crore tonnes of legacy waste has been capped. However, reports indicate that two to three thousand tonnes of unprocessed waste is still being dumped daily over capped layers.
The accumulated waste has reached a height of 614 metres above sea level, surpassing the 608-metre height of Golconda Fort.
Methane emissions worsen climate risks
Researchers said methane emissions from the yard significantly contribute to global warming. The study analysed satellite data in 2025 and identified the site as one of the most hazardous globally.
Among over 700 dump yards studied, Jawaharnagar ranked fourth. Another Indian site at Kanjurmarg in Mumbai also featured in the top 25.
Buenos Aires in Argentina ranked first with emissions of 7.9 tonnes per hour.
Health concerns rise among nearby residents
About 80% of residents living around the dump yard are from low-income groups. Many reported respiratory illnesses, skin infections, and other health issues.
“Methane exposure leads to asthma, headaches, nausea, fatigue and memory problems,” environmental experts said.
When methane reacts with sunlight, it forms ground-level ozone, worsening respiratory diseases.
Groundwater contamination spreads
Reports indicate groundwater contamination up to 10 km around the site. Total dissolved solids (TDS) levels in water exceed 4,000, making it unsafe.
Residents using this water have reported skin diseases and kidney issues.
Waste management gaps persist
Authorities said waste is being diverted to waste-to-energy plants in Dundigal, where about 800 tonnes are processed daily. Another plant in Sangareddy is under construction but faces local opposition and legal hurdles.
Despite this, around 5,500 tonnes of waste remains unprocessed daily at Jawaharnagar.
Project aims to push accountability
“The goal is to provide accurate data so governments cannot deny the problem,” said researcher Jovan Paolo Escudé from UCLA.
He added that local governments must act urgently to curb methane emissions and address global warming risks.
