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Hyderabad's Air: SO2 Surge From Vehicles & Industries
30 Jan
Summary
- SO2 emissions hit 18,101 kg/day in ORR region, 10,701 kg/day in GHMC.
- Vehicles cause 91% of SO2; industries 92% in ORR belt.
- Report urges stricter emission standards and industry relocation.
A recent study conducted by IIT Kanpur for the Pollution Control Board has highlighted critical air pollution levels in Hyderabad and its surroundings. Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emissions are particularly high, reaching 18,101 kg per day in the Outer Ring Road (ORR) region and 10,701 kg per day within the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) area.
Vehicular traffic is identified as the primary contributor to SO₂ emissions within GHMC limits, accounting for 91% of the total. In contrast, industrial activities are the main source in the ORR belt, responsible for 92% of SO₂ emissions. The study also noted that air pollution contributes 33% of PM10 emissions.
For non-PM10 pollutants, industry-related volatile organic compounds (VOCs) represent 66%, while SO₂ constitutes 91%, and nitrogen oxides (NOx) make up 10%. The findings underscore the urgent need for improved air quality management.
The report, titled "Best available techniques and uptake of cleaner fuels for minimising emissions," recommended implementing stricter emission standards, with suggested limits below 30 mg/Nm³, significantly lower than current regulations. It also advised expanding the use of piped natural gas (PNG) and relocating heavily polluting industries away from densely populated urban areas.
