BRS, Congress Leaders Urge GHMC to Reconsider Footpath Shop Demolitions

Hyderabad: BRS and Congress leaders have expressed concerns over GHMC’s ongoing ‘Operation ROPE’, which is aimed at clearing businesses operating on footpaths. MLAs from both parties have slammed demolition of these establishments and urged officials to consider the livelihoods of those affected.

BRS MLA Talasani Srinivas Yadav urged GHMC commissioner (NZ) to halt the demolition of footpath shops and small businesses.

Srinivas Yadav, along with GHMC and traffic police officials visited Monda Market in Secunderabad and urged business owners to ensure that they do not create traffic congestion or cause inconvenience to the public.

Meanwhile, Congress MLA Danam Nagender criticised the civic body for the way they were handling the situation. He suggested that the demolition drive should begin in the Old City.

“This demolition drive is giving a bad name to the government,” Nagender said. “If the GHMC wants to clear footpath of vendors then it should start from the Old City. A government cannot function if bureaucrats are given unrestricted powers.”

GHMC, along with police officials, have been undertaking Operation ROPE (Removal of Obstructive Parkings and Encroachments), to clear footpaths from encroachment. It is part of an effort to improve pedestrian safety and reduce traffic congestion.