Perceptions on effects of environmental pollutants in Hyderabad City

Five hundred twenty adults were interviewed on the perceptions of effects of the environmental pollutants in Hyderabad city of Andhra Pradesh. The information was gathered on polluted water, polluted air, solid wastes, food contamination and readiness to participate in corrective actions. Both initial response and response after probing were recorded. Analysis was done basing on the level of literacy. The correct initial responses on effects of pollutants ranged from 28.3 to 35.4% while responses after probing ranged from 79.2 to 88.1%. 45.8% were ready to participate manually in the corrective actions while 24.6% were eager to contribute financially in remedial actions. The study reveals the need for the initiation of aggressive environmental education.