SCB, members fight over demolition

Hyderabad: Demolitions in Secunderabad Cantonment limits have led to a rift between elected ward members and the SCB administration. Ward members want SCB to frame procedures to be followed for demolition drives. Members allege that currently demolitions are being done in selective and ad hoc basis. 

“Ten cases were found where buildings had deviated from the approved plans but action is being taken in just on one or two cases. In most cases, money changes hands and irregularities are ignored conveniently,” said a leader. 

SCB vice-president J. Ramakrishna said they have received complaints of corruption from property owners and therefore wanting to push for proper procedures in demolition cases. “We submitted a letter to SCB president Manish Upadhyay and urged him to discuss the issue in the board meeting,” he said. 

Ward 6 member Pandu Yadav wanted the SCB to keep the ward members concerned in the loop before razing structures. “Property owners are not given sufficient time to present their cases. Demolitions are being done instantly, which is why the public is approaching us with grievances. We represent wards and it is the duty of SCB officials to inform ward members on such serious issues,” he said. 

Meanwhile, engineering officials said that they take action only after inspecting the site and issuing prior notices.