SNDP diversions add to motorists’ woes

Hyderabad: Commuters travelling from SP Road to Begumpet were in for a rude shock on Tuesday morning as road diversions for the strategic nala development plan (SNDP) works resurfaced without warning. Motorists travelled via Sindhi Colony and Minister’s Road to reach their destinations.

“To my surprise, I reached a dead end after crossing Paradise flyover. Ironically, the indications are not visible in the dark of the night and chances are that you may crash into a roadblock,” said J. Sharath Kumar, a resident of Ameerpet.

The works resumed after the conclusion of the Secunderabad Bonalu, forcing heavy footfall through narrow lanes of Sindhi Colony, towards Ameerpet, Somajiguda, Punjagutta and Banjara Hills.

Commuters said that their journey time doubled. “The parked vehicles on roadsides in this route are causing huge snarls during any given time of the day. During the weekend, the situation worsens, despite traffic police trying to clear the way,” said Syed Muzaffar, a commuter.
GHMC contractors said that the work on reconstructing the bridge on this side would take two to three months, as an 18x18 square-foot slab is to be placed. The project costs around Rs 4 crore.

Contractors were optimistic about finishing the work smoothly. “We are carefully digging the area to avoid damaging the cables and other installations beneath. If work goes smoothly without any problems, we may complete within two months,” said Godasu Jangaiah, site supervisor.

Meanwhile, eateries located in the vicinity said that they are fearful of shutting shop or having to relocate as work at the spot over three months has resulted in a sharp dip in footfall.

Smaller eateries said their problems are more acute, as compared to major food chains located here. “There’s a talk among a few eatery managers about vacating the place… There is a possibility of many shutting,” a local, who did not wish to be identified, said.

Eateries said they are banking on home deliveries to continue operations. “Whatever business is remaining is through online orders, as business is completely dull. We have almost 80 per cent (dip) of the business in the past three to four months,” Ravi Patel, manager of a global food chain outlet at Rasoolpura junction, said.

Manoj Kumar, the manager of a chain of city-based hotels, said, “We sincerely hope that these works are over as soon as possible, as we don’t want to lose customers.”