Higher levels of Ammonia, a pressing concern

Presence of Ammonia high in Jubilee Hills and Charminar

Adding to the existing list of pollutants in the air that are slowing depleting the health of denizens in the city, presence of high concentrations of ammonia in a few areas, is causing a panic. The city, which has been battling hard with the rising levels of Carbon Monoxide, Nitrogen Dioxide and PM10, now has a new assassin in the form of ammonia. Presence of ammonia is very much required for sustenance of ecological system.

But higher concentrations of ammonia are harmful to health and plant growth. Scientists at Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) have fixed the maximum permissible limit for ammonia as 100 micro grams per metre cube. Previous year statistics with the PCB reveal higher concentrations of ammonia in Jubilee Hills (123 micro grams per metre cube) followed by Charminar and Uppal with 120 and 118 micro grams per metre cube respectively.

Fingers are being pointed towards Industries for the increase in levels of ammonia in the atmosphere. Fertiliser, plastic, cloth, dye and chemical industries use ammonia. Experts say that unregulated use and improper handling measures are responsible for the increase in the concentration of ammonia.

Old refrigerators, ice making stations and dry cleaning shops also release ammonia. Prolonged exposure to ammonia corrodes lungs, throat and skin. It deters cellular and plant growth. Speaking to Hyderabad Hans, Veeranna, scientist at APPCB said, “Ammonia is released by industries. If the concentration is more in residential areas, then it should either be due to the dry cleaning shops or due to ammonia from nearby industries which would have spread there. As ammonia is heavier than air, it stays in the atmosphere much longer and makes breathing difficult.”