Visakhapatnam: It’s always inspiring to see the Residents’ Welfare Associations evolving through collective efforts of the residents rather than an enforced one.
This is where the Srinivasa Nagar Colony Residents Welfare Association (SNCRWA) has succeeded.
Located near old Akkayyapalem, cleanliness and other civic amenities of the colony are the result of the continuous, collective efforts of the residents over the years. The colony, which had seen good improvement, is still battling a few civic issues. Three big scrap yards in the colony have turned a nuisance for the residents with the trash and dust flying into surrounding houses, sound pollution and subsequent health problems.
Disorganised parking is one of the problems for the residents. Youth gathering and drinking alcohol sitting in the autos that are parked in the middle of the road is a major complaint raised by many residents.
Recently, the SNCRWA installed a Gandhi statue in the colony and planted saplings across the colony, making the colony look more greener.
However, lack of an alternative road is contributing to road blocks within the colony.
SNCRWA president Dr. R. Ramana Rao explained the association activities. “Initially, there was some hesitation from the fellow residents. Gradually, at least one member from each house joined our efforts in making the colony a better place to live in. We have been conducting yoga sessions and others in the community hall of our colony,” said Dr. Ramana Rao.
Showing a children’s park in one of the corners of the colony, which is in a sorry condition, joint secretary of SNCRWA, K. Naresh Naidu, said: “If the GVMC hands over the park to us, we could make it a recreational space for the residents. We could also go for community farming in the park,” said Mr. Naidu.
Surrounded by Nandagiri Nagar and Sangam Office, the bustling main road leading into the colony is dotted with a few grocery, meat and other stores. When the GVMC sanitary staff were on strike last year, the residents themselves cleaned the roads and drains of the colony.
SNCRWA secretary M. Nagesh said, “There is a plan to establish a local radio in the colony. We celebrate all festivals and days of significance together. A candle rally was organised on Abdul Kalam’s birth anniversary,” recalled Mr. Nagesh.
