The Hyderabad Metropolitan Area Development Authority (HMDA) is intervening to address growing public complaints regarding dust pollution originating from stone mining, crusher units, and Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) plants in the Telangana region, particularly impacting areas surrounding the Outer Ring Road (ORR).
Complaints surged through the Citizen Services portal and social media, detailing health concerns and visibility issues caused by the dust. HMDA officials report receiving a significant increase in grievances over the past few months.
HMDA has initiated a series of measures. A dedicated task force has been formed, comprising officials from the HMDA’s planning and engineering wings, along with representatives from the Telangana State Pollution Control Board (TSPCB). This task force will conduct inspections of these facilities to verify compliance with environmental regulations.
Key areas of focus include ensuring proper dust suppression measures are in place – like water sprinkling, covering of material stockpiles, and enclosure of crushing units. Facilities lacking these measures will face penalties, potentially including closure.
The HMDA is also reviewing the layout approvals granted to these units, checking if they adhere to buffer zone requirements and environmental clearances. Units operating without necessary permissions or violating norms will be strictly dealt with.
The TSPCB is concurrently conducting its own inspections and monitoring air quality in affected areas. They will issue notices to non-compliant units and enforce pollution control standards.
HMDA is coordinating with district administrations to address illegal mining activities contributing to the problem. The authority is emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach involving all stakeholders to mitigate dust pollution and safeguard public health. Residents are encouraged to continue reporting violations through the Citizen Services portal for prompt action. The HMDA aims to create a healthier environment for citizens living near these industrial operations.
