HYDERABAD: Internal roads in Madhapur colonies in disrepair

HYDERABAD: Poor coordination between civic agencies has left internal roads in several colonies of Serilingampally constituency, particularly in Madhapur, in a bad state.

Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) lays the roads, but the Water Board digs them up for underground pipelines. After completing the work, restoration is often neglected, leaving motorists and pedestrians struggling on damaged stretches.

Residents of Khanamet, Izzatnagar Vikas Section Colony, Sainagar, Siddhi in Gachibowli, Bhanagar and Anjayanagar bastis said conditions have worsened over the past few months.

Road-cutting rules bypassed

Officials admitted that road-cutting is being carried out without proper restoration. GHMC has rules mandating prior permission for road cutting. Earlier, zonal commissioners issued permits, but since six months, local engineers have been empowered.

Executive engineers can grant up to 10 metres of cutting, superintending engineers up to 15 metres. For larger works, the chief engineer must review applications after site inspection. Applicants must also pay road-cutting charges.

Old drains, new pipelines

Locals said underground drains laid 20 years ago no longer suffice due to growing colonies and rising hostel numbers. Frequent sewage overflows forced the Water Board to replace old pipelines with new ones, digging through cement concrete roads.

“Contractors were supposed to restore the roads after completing pipeline works. But they have not done so, yet their bills were cleared,” alleged residents.

Repair works soon, says GHMC

Chandanagar circle assistant engineer Prashanth said: “In some areas, roads were dug up for pipelines without GHMC’s knowledge. We are taking steps to restore them. Senior officials have decided to deduct money from Water Board bills to carry out repairs. The work will begin soon.”