HYDERABAD: Unregulated dumping of construction waste has become a major menace in the city’s IT corridor. In areas like Gachibowli, Hitech City and Kokapet, which are home to some of the largest MNC offices, builders are dumping construction waste recklessly, posing a threat to public health.
Irked residents of the IT corridor claim that the waste, dumped haphazardly, is worsening the air and water pollution in the city, affecting not only the residents of the area but also thousands of others from across the city who travel to the IT corridor every day for work.
“Every morning the air feels heavy with dust. My elderly parents find it difficult to breathe and even simple tasks like walking outside have become difficult,” said Prabhakar Naik, a retired bank employee and resident of a gated community in Hitech City.
According to the rules, builders have to take permission from the GHMC to dispose of demolition waste. GHMC officials are supposed to assess the cost and arrange for its safe disposal at designated sites.
“But in reality, much of this waste is illegally dumped in open spaces and vacant lots,” said Nitin Pehlawat, a local shopkeeper from Gachibowli.
“We see construction waste being dumped right next to our house. It is like a huge pile of crushed stones, plastic, paint and more. And it is not just dust; these materials can be toxic,” he added.
Environmentalists say the authorities must act before this becomes a full-blown health crisis. “Construction waste contains hazardous materials like Plaster of Paris, chemical-based paints and toxic adhesives. When exposed to air and rain, these materials release harmful gases and pollute the environment,” said Sai Bhaskar N, an ecologist.
Residents say there are also cases of debris being dumped in water bodies, blocking drainage and increasing the risk of flooding.
Meanwhile, the GHMC authorities have not taken any significant action to remove these dumpsites, even after repeated complaints, locals say.
“We expect better governance in a global IT hub like Hyderabad. Instead, we see garbage being dumped near major office spaces. It affects businesses and tarnishes the city’s reputation,” said Jay Sathe, a worker in Hitech City.
When contacted, a GHMC official acknowledged the problem and assured that stricter monitoring was being implemented. “We have identified unauthorised dumping sites and are working to impose penalties on violators. Efforts are being made to streamline the disposal of construction waste,” official said.
