Panic in Goshamahal as Road Caves In
A sense of panic spread in Hyderabad’s Goshamahal area on Tuesday night when a section of the road suddenly caved in. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. However, an auto and a tractor passing by skidded into the collapsed portion of the road. This marks the fifth time such an incident has occurred in the area.
Residents Protest Over Neglected Infrastructure
On Wednesday, frustrated residents staged a protest, demanding immediate action from authorities to address ongoing infrastructure issues. They warned that protests will continue if their concerns are not resolved promptly. The road collapse occurred on a busy stretch between Goshamahal and Darussalam, causing damage to several vehicles and disrupting traffic.
Unfinished Nala Construction Raises Concerns
Residents blame the frequent collapses on the incomplete nala (drainage) work in the area. According to locals, only 50% of the 800-meter nala construction has been completed, despite the project being under progress for an extended period. “The unfinished nala poses a serious risk,” said a resident, expressing frustration over the slow pace of work.
Mayor Promises Swift Action
Upon learning of the incident, GHMC Mayor Gadwal Vijayalakshmi and Zonal Commissioner Anurag Jayanti visited the site to inspect the damage. The mayor assured residents that repair work would be expedited. She announced that tenders for the repairs would be invited within a day and directed officials to prepare long-term solutions. “We will call for a one-day tender to complete the work immediately,” she said.
Recurring Road Collapses
Residents pointed out that this is not an isolated incident. They cited poor management of the nearby nala and the frequent movement of heavy vehicles as reasons for the road’s deteriorating condition. Local leaders confirmed that this is the fifth road collapse in the past couple of years.
In 2022, a significant portion of the road caved in, damaging vendor carts, bikes, and a car. GHMC officials attributed the incident to damaged concrete slabs covering the open drain, which they believe cracked due to constant sewage fumes.
Similar Incidents in 2024
In July 2024, another road collapse occurred in the same area, where a truck fell into a pit caused by the failure of two overlapping sewage pipes. A similar collapse happened again in October.
Calls for Urgent Attention
Rajesh Yadav, a local resident, highlighted the ongoing concerns about the area’s infrastructure. He recalled a January 2025 incident when a crusher lorry was trapped after a section of the nala road collapsed. Although the driver escaped unhurt, the event underscored the urgent need for better infrastructure management.
Residents are now pressing authorities to find a permanent solution to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of those traveling through the area.