Service roads in Hyderabad are being taken over by private individuals, but the GHMC (Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation) is not taking any action. The Archeological Museum building in public gardens is being damaged by regular garbage burning, but the GHMC is turning a blind eye. Heritage activists and museum visitors believe that the corporator and Mayor are more concerned about their political future than the building’s preservation.
Heritage activists and daily morning walkers have noticed that the GHMC is not regularly collecting garbage, leading museum staff to burn waste, causing harm to the building’s color. This practice also affects walkers seeking fresh air during their morning walks, as they are forced to inhale smoke. Mohammed Abid Ali, a social activist and daily walker, mentioned that complaints about trash burning have been made to the GHMC, but there has been no response.
The neglect of the museum over the past decade by the previous government has led to its decay. Despite a change in government, there still seems to be a lack of concern for its preservation. Approximately 3,000 walkers visit the garden daily, many of whom have complained about air pollution caused by burning trash. This pollution releases harmful pollutants like particulate matter and carbon monoxide, impacting air quality and causing respiratory issues.
Burning garbage near historical sites not only harms the environment but also jeopardizes conservation efforts, risking the loss of valuable cultural heritage for future generations. Sarwar Pasha, a daily walker, highlighted the damage caused by smoke and ash settling on historical structures. The GHMC needs to take action to address these issues and protect the city’s heritage sites for future generations.