KRCR Colony residents in Bachupally raise concerns over toxic chemical smell
Hyderabad: Residents of KRCR Colony in Bachupally are facing severe discomfort due to a strong, pungent chemical smell that has made it difficult to breathe. The community has called on the Pollution Control Board (PCB) to investigate the issue and address their concerns.
Speaking with the Hyderabad Mail, Gopi Krishna, a resident of KRCR Colony since 2008, said, “Pollution has been an ongoing issue in this area. Even local leaders, including our MLA, have participated in rallies and protests organized by Haritha Vanam, but we have seen no positive results.”
He said, “Unauthorized bulk drug industries are often granted licenses for fine chemicals, but they violate regulations by disposing of untreated effluents. Those working in the pharmaceutical industry are aware of the root cause of the pollution.” Krishna further suggested that the smell could be coming from industrial areas near Bollaram, with the fumes potentially reaching areas like Bachupally.
Another resident, Ravinder Goud, described the situation as “horrible” and “unbearable.” Munagala Venu also expressed concern, stating, “The smell is strong and unbreathable.”
This issue is not new. Earlier, residents of Ameenpur, located nearby, raised alarms about a recurring heavy chemical smell affecting their health. They have been dealing with this problem for over a year, particularly during the evenings between 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Social media posts from residents, including Mahesh Reddy (@Mahesh Kakanuru), highlighted the ongoing issue. Mahesh Reddy tweeted, “A heavy chemical smell is coming from Ameenpur. It’s hard to breathe. Requesting a patrolling team to visit the location.”
Nannapaneni Sambasivarao (@Nannapanen63742) also pointed out the need for intervention by the Pollution Control Board, stating, “There’s heavy pollution in this area. Please visit this location.”
In a similar vein, residents of Pragathi Nagar staged a protest on October 26, 2024, demanding action from the PCB after a series of poisonous gas leaks from a nearby pharmaceutical company. The leaks have caused significant distress, especially among residents living on higher floors. Sai Teja, a Pragathi Nagar resident, described the situation, saying, “The poisonous gas leak has been ongoing for three days. It’s unbearable, especially on higher floors. The air is filled with harmful gases, causing nausea and distress among residents, including pregnant women, elderly citizens, and children.”
Teja added that residents had submitted dozens of complaints to the Pollution Control Board but had received no response. “This lack of action led to the protest. While we think we may have identified the source of the leak, officials have not addressed our concerns.”
Residents in the Bachupally area continue to demand swift action from authorities to ensure a healthier and safer environment.
