Hyderabad Government Committed to Fighting Pollution
The Telangana state government is determined to prevent Hyderabad from experiencing severe pollution like Delhi. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy stated that the government is ready to take tough decisions, even if the Opposition tries to create obstacles. These measures aim to protect the health and well-being of the city’s residents.
Speaking at the “Praja Palana Vijayotsavalu” event organized by the Transport Department on Thursday, Revanth Reddy highlighted the alarming pollution levels in Delhi. He mentioned how the lack of preventive steps there has led to school closures and health concerns, with even Union Minister Nitin Gadkari expressing fears about staying in the capital due to pollution.
To address pollution in Hyderabad, the Chief Minister announced plans to purchase 3,000 electric buses over the next two years. This initiative aims to significantly reduce air pollution in the city. He emphasized the importance of raising awareness about switching to electric vehicles, not just among citizens but also within government departments.
Revanth Reddy also urged the Transport Department to propose incentives for autorickshaw drivers who transition to electric vehicles. He acknowledged the challenge of balancing strict enforcement of pollution laws with protecting the livelihoods of drivers. Autorickshaws, he noted, are major contributors to air pollution, but strict action against them could impact their income.
The Chief Minister directed the Transport Minister to develop a plan for phasing out fossil fuel-based autorickshaws within the Outer Ring Road (ORR) and supporting their transition to electric autos in Hyderabad. This would be a key step in reducing pollution within the city.
During the event, Revanth Reddy unveiled the Transport Department’s new logo and announced that the government would begin implementing a vehicle scrapping policy next year. This policy aims to remove old, polluting vehicles from the roads.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the success of the free bus travel scheme under the “Mahalakshmi” guarantee for women’s welfare. Since its launch, over 115 crore zero-fare tickets have been issued, saving women an estimated Rs 5,000 to Rs 7,000 annually.
Earlier in the event, Revanth Reddy distributed appointment letters to candidates who secured jobs in the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (RTC) on compassionate grounds. He also handed over orders to companies authorized to establish vehicle scrapping facilities, further supporting the city’s efforts to combat pollution.
