Hyderabad Faces Pollution Crisis Due to Old Vehicles
The lack of strict enforcement by road transport authorities to scrap vehicles older than 15 years is worsening pollution in Hyderabad. Adding to this problem, many Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) buses continue to operate beyond their lifespan, causing further harm to the city’s air quality.
Experts warn that if immediate action is not taken, Hyderabad could face a pollution crisis similar to New Delhi’s within the next five years. The national capital already struggles with severe air pollution, and Hyderabad risks heading in the same direction.
Reports suggest that about 30 lakh vehicles in Telangana, including 20 lakh in Hyderabad, need to be scrapped immediately. This includes 40,000 autos (10,000 of which operate in the city), 10 lakh light motor vehicles (5 lakh in Hyderabad), and 10 lakh two-wheelers. Additionally, there are around 50,000 to 60,000 goods vehicles that have outlived their utility.
On Wednesday, Hyderabad’s air quality index (AQI) stood at 179, which is considered moderate. However, this is far better compared to New Delhi, where the AQI frequently reaches 500, the highest in the country. New Delhi has implemented strict measures like restricting vehicles below BS-V standards from entering the city. In contrast, Hyderabad has taken little preventive action so far.
Even government-owned vehicles contribute to the issue. TSRTC buses are supposed to be scrapped after completing 12 lakh kilometers, but many buses are run beyond 15 lakh kilometers, citing maintenance by experienced mechanics. Sources reveal that about 1,000 buses exceed the 12-lakh-kilometer limit. A union leader emphasized the need for TSRTC to replace at least 2,500 buses with new ones.
A senior official disclosed that the government has records of vehicles exceeding the 15-year lifespan and has sent notices to their owners. Talks were held with major vehicle manufacturers to offer financial support and a 15% tax rebate for scrapping old vehicles and buying new ones. However, vehicle owners have shown little interest in scrapping their vehicles, prompting the need for stricter enforcement by the RTA.
The government is set to introduce a scrapping policy starting in January 2025. While this policy will be mandatory for government and transport vehicles, it will remain voluntary for private vehicles.
M. Dayanand, General Secretary of the Telangana Auto and Motor Welfare Union, suggested that the government should lead by example. He urged authorities to first scrap outdated government vehicles, including those used by the police, GHMC sanitation, and other departments, before enforcing rules on private citizens.
