GHMC bulldozes decades-old encroachments in Tolichowki
In Short
Hakeempet shelters extending into stormwater nala demolished amid protests
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Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation
Hyderabad: The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) on Thursday carried out an anti-encroachment drive in Hakeempet near IAS Colony in Tolichowki, demolishing temporary shelters that had allegedly encroached upon a stormwater drain for several decades.
The demolition drive was taken up by GHMC Town Planning officials in the Golconda zone, was carried out amid protests and heated arguments with residents. Police personnel were deployed to maintain law and order during the operation.
GHMC Golconda Zone Deputy Commissioner D Jagan said the structures had extended approximately 10 to 15 feet into the stormwater nala, obstructing the free flow of water. He said the drive was conducted in compliance with the Telangana High Court’s directions to clear encroachments.
Jagan further stated that road-widening works proposed to ease traffic congestion in the locality would also commence soon, following demands from local residents.
The demolition drive began at 9 am and witnessed mild tension as some residents resisted the action. However, officials managed to complete the operation after persuading the residents. No detentions were made during the drive, said Tolichowki Circle Inspector L Ramesh Naik.
Meanwhile, residents expressed mixed reactions to the demolition. Some questioned the action, alleging that the structures were removed without prior notice, while others welcomed the GHMC’s move.
Srinath, a resident, alleged that officials arrived with police and bulldozers and demolished the shelters without giving prior notice. He said several families, including daily-wage workers, had been living in the locality for nearly five decades and questioned where they would go after losing their shelters.
On the other hand, Mohammed Asif Hussain, another resident of Hakeempet, welcomed the demolition, alleging that the huts had been used for illegal liquor sales and had become a gathering place for youngsters. He thanked the GHMC for taking action against the encroachments.
GHMC officials said that clearing the structures was necessary to restore the stormwater drain and facilitate civic infrastructure improvements in the locality.
