GHMC and Traffic Police Launch Anti-Encroachment Drive in Hyderabad
Hyderabad: In a bid to ease traffic congestion and improve road safety, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and the city traffic police have conducted an anti-encroachment drive across various parts of the city. This initiative targeted illegal structures such as sheds, kiosks, and temporary stalls that were obstructing public pathways and roads.
The drive was carried out in several areas, including Chintal Basthi, Khairatabad, LB Nagar, and parts of the Old City. Authorities removed sheds and shops that were encroaching on footpaths and portions of the main roads. While the drive aimed to improve traffic flow, local shopkeepers and vendors expressed concerns, saying that the sudden demolitions have adversely impacted their livelihoods.
Clearing Public Spaces for Traffic and Pedestrian Safety
According to GHMC officials, the demolition effort is part of their ongoing mission to eliminate encroachments and create more space for vehicles and pedestrians. Unauthorized structures along roads and public spaces have been a major cause of congestion in the city. By removing these encroachments, the civic body hopes to ensure smoother traffic movement and safer conditions for commuters.
On Wednesday, the authorities specifically targeted Chintal Basthi Road. Here, pushcarts and temporary sheds were removed as they were allegedly hindering traffic between Khairatabad and Banjara Hills Road No. 2. Similar operations took place in LB Nagar, where temporary structures of hotels, juice centers, paan shops, and a tire repair shop were also dismantled.
Local Vendors Voice Concerns
During the operation, the demolition of a puncture shop near a bus stop sparked frustration among locals. The shop owner claimed that his establishment, which had been operational for years and served the community, was removed without prior notice. “They demolished my shop without warning,” the owner said, highlighting the distress caused by the action.
GHMC and Police Justify the Drive
A GHMC official stated that the removal of encroachments is essential for maintaining public property and ensuring smoother traffic flow. “We will continue similar operations in different areas of the city to ensure roads and footpaths are used as intended,” the official added.
The traffic police also emphasized the positive impact of their initiative, dubbed “Operation ROPE” (Removal of Obstructive Parking and Encroachments). They noted that the operation has led to noticeable changes in citizens’ commuting behavior, particularly at busy intersections across Hyderabad.
Commissioner Calls for Cooperation
Hyderabad Police Commissioner CV Anand highlighted the importance of clearing footpaths and roads to reduce traffic congestion. He noted that many roadside vendors, though perceived as small-scale operators, are not locals but come from other states, allegedly paying large sums to local mafia groups to encroach on public spaces.
“It is surprising to see shopkeepers leasing out the space in front of their stores for profit. To resolve traffic issues, cooperation from the public, politicians, and officials of all departments is essential,” the Commissioner said. He also acknowledged that the lack of support from local politicians could lead to challenges in executing these operations effectively.
