Hyderabad is on the move not just on the progressive front but also in terms of pollution. The levels of dust, water and sound pollution in the city are alarming and increasing by leaps and bounds every year. According to the state Pollution Control Board, the total suspended particulate matter (TSPM), which denotes the dust levels in the city, has increased from 241 ug/m to 254 ug/m since last year. Scientists and environmentalists say this is a pernicious sign. "There is a lot of construction activity in the city hence the rising dust level. The administration has no plan to check this problem of pollution. Today, Hyderabad ranks fifth in terms of pollution but given the pace at which it is increasing I am sure it will overtake all the metros in dust pollution," says Mr Vedkumar, president of Forum for Better Hyderabad. The Pollution Control Board also reports that the respirable suspended particulate matter (RSPM), which denotes the dust accumulation in lungs, also increased from 84 ug/m recorded last year to 92 ug/m. The higher this figure the more the chances of lung cancer. However, environmentalists say the pace at which the dust in the city is increasing is a sign of danger. There is already an increase in the number of cases of bronchitis and asthma. The board report also says vehicular emission also increased by more than 20 per cent from the previous year. "This problem can be solved only with a master plan and constant review of the situation," says Mr Vedkumar.