Hyderabad, February 03: “The proposal to provide a special package to Sultan Bazar owners and tenants is aimed at dividing them and hoodwink the public,” said C Ramchandraiah, founder, Citizens for a Better Public Transport in Hyderabad.
The so-called special package announced by Hyderabad Metro Rail (HMR) authorities makes it attractive only for owners, Ramachandraiah told Express. The assurance to rehabilitate traders and hawkers to complexes in Chikkadpally is an eyewash as there are no vacant shops, added Ramchandraiah.
“Even if existing complexes are demolished and new ones constructed, it would take years to complete. Existing shop owners should approach courts against eviction,” he said.
He observed there were several contradictions in the pronouncements of HMR authorities. “On one hand, they are claiming the project work will start only after rehabilitation of affected persons and on the other, GHMC revenue officials are threatening owners to accept some compensation and surrender properties,” he said. “Authorities pointed out markets are not going anywhere. How on earth is it possible to widen narrow roads to 100 feet without demolishing shops?” he questioned.
Rehabilitating tenants and hawkers into modern multi-storied markets reveals utter lack of understanding dynamics of businesses. Demolition of shops will surely kill their businesses, Ramchandraiah lamented. He lashed out at the HMR authorities for ruining city’s heritage.
“Economy of these areas is linked to thousands of small businesses and families in neighbouring Telangana districts. The metro project would destroy this whole economic chain and deprive lakhs of people of their livelihoods,” Ramchandraiah said.
Ramachandraiah alleged the HMR is a real-estate project pushed by companies and contractors.
Urban renewal projects are taken up cities worldwide in areas of old, dilapidated buildings where no economic activity is possible, he added.
“Alignment of a substantial stretch in the Old City has been changed after the concession agreement. It shows the unethical and illegal means being employed both by the officials and developer,” he said.
He said a third party like the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) should be involved to do the study. On a concluding note, he warned that people should not entertain illusions it would solve traffic problems.
-Agencies