In a significant move to reclaim public spaces, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and the Secunderabad Cantonment Board (SCB) launched a joint operation to remove footpath encroachments in West Marredpally on Saturday. The drive, supported by local police, dismantled several illegal structures, providing much-needed relief to pedestrians. This initiative underscores the civic bodies’ commitment to prioritising public convenience and ensuring safer urban mobility.
The operation targeted encroachments by various commercial entities, including signboards, overhead display boards, extended staircases, and sheds that had encroached on footpaths. Heavy machinery such as excavators and earthmovers were employed to clear dozens of unauthorised installations. Officials from GHMC and SCB, alongside the police, ensured a smooth and decisive execution of the clearance drive. GHMC deputy city planner and additional commissioner of police (traffic), P. Viswaprasad, oversaw the operation, which was carried out meticulously to address persistent pedestrian grievances.
Residents of West Marredpally have lauded the authorities for the long-overdue initiative. The encroachments had not only disrupted pedestrian movement but also aggravated traffic congestion in the area. Speaking on behalf of many relieved locals, a resident noted, “The removal of these obstacles has brought back the dignity of walking spaces in our locality.” Business owners were also issued a stern warning against encroaching on public property, with the GHMC and SCB vowing to enforce strict penalties on repeat offenders.
From a sustainability perspective, the removal of these encroachments is a step towards reclaiming urban spaces for their intended public use. Unregulated commercialisation of footpaths compromises pedestrian safety, discourages walking, and contributes to increased vehicle dependency. By clearing these spaces, authorities are promoting walkability and addressing a fundamental aspect of urban sustainability. This initiative also highlights the importance of collaboration among civic bodies to resolve pressing urban issues and ensure equitable access to public infrastructure.
