Hyderabad’s GHMC Cracks Down on Unsafe Structures

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) is significantly ramping up its efforts to address the city’s dilapidated buildings to mitigate the risk of accidents caused by heavy rainfall.

In a recent online review meeting, Chief City Planner issued directives to the Town Planning staff, underscoring the urgent need to evacuate residents from buildings deemed unsafe. The focus is on securing these structures to restrict access and prevent potential hazards. Currently, the GHMC has identified 566 dilapidated buildings across Hyderabad. Of these, 89 have been demolished this season. Furthermore, 146 structures have either been vacated, repaired, or sealed, with actions pending for the remaining 331 buildings. This proactive approach aims to safeguard residents and enhance overall urban safety during the monsoon.

Srinivas, the Chief City Planner, has also imposed a temporary ban on new cellar excavations until the end of the monsoon. This decision is driven by concerns over the stability of excavations during heavy rains. Existing excavations must be reinforced with retaining walls and adequately barricaded to ensure public safety. Out of the 167 open cellars identified by the GHMC, 102 now have retaining walls, with construction work underway for the remaining 65. These measures are crucial for preventing accidents and structural failures that could be exacerbated by monsoon conditions.

The GHMC’s heightened focus on managing dilapidated structures and reinforcing cellar excavations reflects a broader strategy to mitigate the risks associated with seasonal rains. By addressing these critical safety issues, the municipal corporation aims to protect both residents and infrastructure, thereby enhancing the city’s resilience against the challenges posed by the monsoon.