Hyderabad: Thousands of CNG and LPG-run autorickshaws, promoted as cleaner alternatives to petrol and diesel vehicles, are increasingly turning into a major source of air pollution in Hyderabad. Poor vehicle maintenance, worn-out engines and the illegal use of domestic LPG cylinders are causing many of these green-fuel autos to emit thick smoke, raising concerns over air quality and public health.The problem, experts say, is not with the fuel but with the condition of the vehicles. CNG and auto-LPG vehicles do not emit visible smoke under normal operating conditions.However, worn-out piston rings and damaged engine components in ageing autorickshaws allow lubricating oil to enter the combustion chamber, where it burns along with the fuel and produce thick exhaust fumes.
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Poor maintenance and faulty engine gaskets further worsen emissions.Such smoke-belching autorickshaws are a common sight on busy roads and at major junctions across Greater Hyderabad, exposing motorists and pedestrians to harmful fumes, especially during peak traffic hours.Another major concern is the alleged use of subsidised domestic LPG cylinders in autorickshaws. To reduce operating costs amid rising auto-LPG prices, some drivers are reportedly refilling vehicle tanks with household cooking gas through unauthorised methods. Besides causing revenue losses to the govt, the practice poses significant fire and safety risks as domestic cylinders are not designed for automotive use.According to sources, illegal refilling is widespread in areas including Chaderghat, Yakutpura, Jagadgirigutta, Koti, Secunderabad and Erragadda. Despite the practice reportedly occurring openly, enforcement has remained weak, allowing the trade to flourish.Concerns have also been raised about Pollution Under Control (PUC) centres, with transport experts alleging that emission tests are often conducted mechanically, enabling unfit vehicles to obtain certificates without proper inspection.Dheerendra Samineni, a transport expert said visible smoke from CNG and LPG vehicles is a clear sign of engine deterioration. “These vehicles require immediate engine overhauling or major repairs. Fitness inspections and emission testing must be far more stringent. Authorities should also crack down on the illegal use of domestic LPG cylinders, which not only increases pollution but also poses a serious safety hazard,” he said.When TOI contacted the transport department, joint transport commissioner (vigilance) M Chandrashekar Goud acknowledged the issue and said the transport department would soon launch a special enforcement drive against smoke-emitting autorickshaws and vehicles illegally using domestic LPG cylinders.Experts stress that stricter fitness inspections, tighter monitoring of PUC centres and sustained enforcement against fuel violations are essential to ensure green-fuel autorickshaws remain an environmental solution rather than an unexpected source of urban pollution.
