Ageing CNG and LPG Autos in Hyderabad Turn into Grey Polluters, Report Warns

Hyderabad’s green auto rickshaws, once promoted as a cleaner alternative to petrol vehicles, are increasingly turning into grey polluters, according to a recent report by the Times of India. The article, published on 25 July 2026, highlights that many CNG and LPG autorickshaws are emitting thick smoke due to poor maintenance, worn-out engines, and the illegal use of domestic gas cylinders. The issue poses both environmental and safety risks for the city’s commuters and residents.

The Problem of Ageing Green Autos

Autorickshaws in Hyderabad were gradually converted to compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) under government schemes aimed at reducing vehicular emissions. These vehicles, commonly painted green to indicate their fuel type, were supposed to run cleaner than their petrol counterparts. However, the Times of India report notes that many of these autos are now ageing, with owners failing to maintain engines or replace worn-out parts. As a result, incomplete combustion of gas leads to visible smoke plumes, defeating the purpose of the green initiative.

The report does not provide specific numbers, but it indicates that the problem is widespread across the city, particularly in areas with older auto fleets. Commuters have also reported seeing autos emitting thick smoke while waiting at traffic signals or during acceleration.

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| Issue | Ageing green autos emitting thick smoke |
| Causes | Poor maintenance, worn-out engines, illegal use of domestic cylinders |
| Affected | Hyderabad commuters, air quality, public safety |
| Source | Times of India – Hyderabad (25 July 2026) |

Illegal Use of Domestic Cylinders – A Safety Hazard

A particularly alarming finding in the report is the practice of using domestic LPG cylinders in autorickshaws. Household cylinders are not designed for the vibrations and pressure demands of a moving vehicle. Using them illegally not only leads to incomplete combustion and higher emissions but also creates a serious risk of gas leaks, fires, and explosions. The report states that some auto drivers resort to this practice to save costs, as commercial cylinders are more expensive and require proper registration.

The Hyderabad City Police and the Telangana State Transport Department have previously conducted drives against such illegal modifications, but the report suggests the practice persists. Residents living near auto stands have reported occasional gas smells and fear for their safety.

Impact on Hyderabad’s Air Quality

Hyderabad already struggles with air pollution, particularly in high-traffic corridors such as the Inner Ring Road, Ameerpet, and Secunderabad. The addition of smoke-spewing autos, even if only a fraction of the fleet, worsens the situation. PM2.5 and PM10 levels may be elevated near auto stands and busy junctions. The report does not provide direct air quality readings, but it adds to a growing body of evidence that simply switching fuel types does not guarantee clean air unless vehicles are properly maintained.

Environmental groups in Hyderabad have repeatedly called for stricter enforcement of pollution checks for autos, including periodic inspections of CNG and LPG kits. The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and the Telangana Pollution Control Board have not yet released a formal response to the report.

What Commuters and Authorities Should Know

For daily commuters who rely on autos, the report serves as a reminder to be aware of the vehicle’s condition. Commuters can report visibly smoking autos to the Hyderabad City Police traffic helpline or the Transport Department. The report also highlights the need for a more robust inspection system. While the city has a network of pollution-checking centres, it is unclear how many of the green autos are regularly tested.

The Times of India article, authored by Madhu Rasala, does not offer a specific solution but frames the problem as a classic case of policy intentions falling short due to weak enforcement. As the city prepares for more electric auto deployments, the report serves as a caution that older vehicles cannot be ignored.

Commuters are advised to check the condition of the auto before boarding, especially if they notice smoke. The illegal use of domestic cylinders should be reported to the police.

Source: Times of India – Hyderabad, “Ageing green autos turn grey polluters” (https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/ageing-green-autos-turn-grey-polluters/articleshow/132632614.cms)

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