HYDERABAD: The HYDRA is gearing up to undertake a significant initiative aimed at removing permanent structures encroaching on footpaths throughout the city. This decision is rooted in concerns about traffic congestion and pedestrian safety, as the current encroachments are forcing pedestrians onto roadways, thereby increasing the risk of accidents.
In a review meeting held yesterday at the office of the Traffic Additional Commissioner, AV Rangnath discussed traffic-related challenges with Additional Commissioner P. Vishwaprasad. Rangnath announced that notices will be issued to encroachers prior to the commencement of the operation.
As part of a pilot project, the operation will initially target high-traffic areas within Hyderabad. Disaster Response Force (DRF) teams will work alongside traffic police to implement effective traffic management strategies in congested routes. The DRF personnel will receive specialized training in traffic control measures.
Furthermore, authorities indicated that they would take responsibility for removing electric transformers, telephone wires, and GHMC garbage bins currently obstructing footpaths.
Flood-Prone Areas Identified in Hyderabad
In related news, official GHMC reports have identified 144 areas in Hyderabad that are prone to flooding, with 65 of these located within the jurisdiction of the Hyderabad Police Commissionerate. To address the issue of standing rainwater, officials have decided to deploy high-capacity motors to facilitate the swift removal of water from newly identified flood-prone regions. The discharged water will be redirected to nearby drains and floodwater management channels to ensure effective drainage and minimize the risk of flooding.