Jawaharnagar dumping yard ash poses health risks
HYDERABAD: Residents near the Jawaharnagar dumping yard in Dundigal are facing severe health risks due to toxic ash released from three waste-to-energy plants. A Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) report revealed that the ash contains heavy metals in concentrations far above permissible limits.
According to the CPCB, cadmium levels at the Jawaharnagar plant were over 1,073 times the safe limit, while thallium concentrations also exceeded standards. At the Dundigal plant, cadmium levels were found to be 956.19 mg/kg — 1,199 times higher than the permissible limit. Instead of being safely disposed of or used in brick-making, the ash is being dumped at the same site, contaminating soil, water, and groundwater.
Environmentalists said that such practices openly violate National Green Tribunal rules. “The problem persists because the operators break rules with impunity,” the CPCB stated in its submission.
Health impact on locals
A report by a civil society fact-finding team in May 2025 found that residents around the yard are suffering from respiratory illnesses, kidney failure, and severe skin diseases. Many also reported throat and mouth infections. The team said that high-temperature burning of mixed waste releases poisonous gases and toxic ash, which settle on clothes and food. Locals said they are unable to afford medical treatment.
Call for action
The civil society report urged the Telangana Pollution Control Board to suspend waste-to-energy operations until rules are followed, and sought an independent investigation into the health impacts.
Activists criticised waste management company Ramky for burning wet and dry waste together to maximise payments from the municipal corporation, leading to toxic emissions. They also alleged that the firm is not disclosing data publicly, in violation of environmental regulations.
