Hyderabad Air Quality Turns Dangerous: AQI Crosses 300 in Some Areas, Experts Warn of Health Risks

Hyderabad | January 4, 2026 | DeccanLive.com

Air quality in Hyderabad has worsened sharply, raising serious health concerns among residents. On Saturday, air quality levels in some parts of the city crossed an AQI of 300, which falls under the “very dangerous” category. Scientists say breathing such polluted air can cause severe health problems.

According to data shown by third-party apps and Google Air Quality reports, several areas recorded AQI levels close to or above 300. However, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data showed a much lower maximum AQI of around 170, leading to confusion among the public.

Experts say AQI above 100 itself is risky, and anything near 300 can lead to lung diseases, breathing problems, and even cancer in the long run. Some scientists warn that inhaling air with AQI 300 is equal to smoking nearly 30 to 35 cigarettes in a single day.

Conflicting Data Raises Questions

Hyderabad has 14 air quality monitoring stations set up by the Pollution Control Board. These stations report daily minimum and maximum AQI levels. In December, the PCB reported a maximum AQI of 132, while third-party apps showed AQI levels going up to 270.

Environmental experts say such a huge difference should not happen. They point out that European-standard air quality machines are far more accurate but cost nearly ₹30 lakh each. The devices currently used by PCB may not meet those international standards.

Dr. Sharath, an environmental scientist, explained that PCB uses Indian air quality standards, while third-party apps use US EPA standards. He said apps often show peak values, while PCB reports average values, which causes differences in numbers.

Why Is Hyderabad’s Air Getting Worse?

Hyderabad has nearly 80 lakh vehicles, and about 50 lakh vehicles come onto the roads every day. Smoke from vehicles is one of the biggest reasons for rising air pollution. Along with this, construction work, garbage burning, sewage smell, and industrial emissions are making the air quality worse.

Air pollution is measured based on three factors:

• Biological pollution (humidity, bacteria, waste smell)
• Physical pollution (fine dust particles)
• Chemical pollution (carbon dioxide, sulphur, nitrogen oxide, benzene, etc.)

If these cross safe limits, people are at high risk of serious health problems.

KPHB Records AQI 302

On Saturday morning around 8:30 am, Kukatpally Housing Board (KPHB) area recorded an AQI of 302, similar to pollution levels seen in Delhi. However, CPCB does not have an official monitoring station in this area.

As per CPCB data, Bolaram industrial area recorded the highest AQI of 142, while Ramachandrapuram recorded the lowest at 73 on the same day.

Dr. K.M. Laxman Rao, retired JNTU professor, said he does not fully trust PCB devices and believes Google data may be closer to reality. He added that Hyderabad’s air quality is getting worse every day and stressed the need for international-standard monitoring systems.

Public Health at Risk

Experts strongly warn that the current air pollution levels are dangerous. They urge authorities to improve monitoring systems and take immediate steps to control vehicle emissions, construction dust, and industrial pollution.