Air quality levels on the slide in city

Hyderabad: The air quality in the city went for a toss in the last two months. Pollution Control Board (PCB) officials warn that the situation is further going to worsen in the next three days.

On November 2, city's Air Quality Index (AQI) was at 69. It was 174 on November 6, and it is found to be fluctuating on an average from 120 to 170. As per the PCB, AQI above 151 is considered unhealthy.

A PCB official says that vehicular emission contributes higher to the air pollution in city. Its data shows a drastic increase in the air pollution levels in the city. The AQI shoots above 151 at least thrice in a single day. The situation may not be as bad as the capital city but officials say that the trend is not a good one.

Move to install air purifiers

In what can be termed as a news that brings a breath of fresh air, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has decided to install air purifiers at strategic locations across the city.

Cost of each air purifier ranges from Rs 50,000 to Rs 12 lakh depending on its capacity. Lokesh Kumar, Commissioner, GHMC, had said, "To control the air pollution in the city, GHMC is all set to install outdoor air purifiers in excessively polluted areas.

The process of installation would begin in two months, by the start of fresh year Hyderabad shall breathe fresh air. Selection of areas to install air purifiers and further decisions would be finalized in a week span as a pilot project first, later after the reports of developments observed and reviewed, it process would continue with necessary improvements."

In the initial phase, air purifiers would be set up at Gachibowli, Jubilee Hills, and Panjagutta. In all, 500 purifiers are to be installed in highly polluted areas. The civic body is to consult Pollution Control Board for a list of polluted junctions in the city.