Balkampet residents upset over tree cuttings
Hyderabad: The Southern Power Distribution Company of Telangana authorities (TGSPDCl) ruthlessly cut tree branches in Scientific Colony Balkampet, leaving residents feeling miserable in Hyderabad’s hot summer season.
While talking to Hyderabad Mail, Krishna Chaitanya, a resident, shared his concern that “On 29th May 2024, the Southern Power Distribution Company of Telangana (TGSPDCl) cut tree branches in Scientific Colony Balkampet. The tree branches were cut, but unfortunately, the authorities left the area without cleaning up the debris or removing the branches from the site. This neglect not only detracts from the aesthetics of the surroundings but also poses potential hazards for pedestrians and dogs.”
Krishna Chaitanya pointed out that Chief Minister Revanth Reddy urged the public to get ready for the monsoon season. However, he expressed concern that the Southern Power Distribution Company of Telangana is cutting tree branches unnecessarily and without proper inspection. This action is leading to the loss of valuable greenery, which is crucial for our well-being, especially during the scorching summers. Without enough greenery, people and animals will struggle to endure the heat waves. It’s essential to preserve our green spaces for a healthier and more sustainable environment.
@tgspdcl Tree branches were cut on 29th May but still not cleared in Scientific Colony Balkampet.
Who is going to clear?@GHMCOnline @gadwalvijayainc @CommissionrGHMC @Ilovehyderabad @UNTGAPS @Praja_Snklpm @NeelimaEaty @revathitweets @Citizen_TS @ActivistTeja @Rusty_2001 pic.twitter.com/CrKPdQQVLp
— Krishna Chaitanya 🌳♻️ (@krishna_avs) June 7, 2024
The resident said that due to their action, I lost my internet connection. But trees are the only natural source of cooling our surroundings and helping to improve the groundwater level. So, let us save Trees and save lives, urged Krishna Chaitanya.
After complaining about the debris left behind, the Southern Power Distribution Company of Telangana ensured that it was removed on the evening of June 7th. However, Krishna Chaitanya criticized the company for cutting tree branches without considering the impact of climate change and global warming.
Krishna Chaitanya, the resident further urged the government to inspect and halt unnecessary tree cuttings.
Krishna Chaitanya toot to ‘X’ and posted that, ‘’@tgspdcl Tree branches were cut on 29th May but still not cleared in Scientific Colony Balkampet. Who is going to clear?
@GHMCOnline @gadwalvijayainc @CommissionrGHMC @Ilovehyderabad @UNTGAPS @Praja_Snklpm @NeelimaEaty @revathitweets @Citizen_TS @ActivistTeja @Rusty_2001.’’
CM Revanth Reddy reorganizes disaster management for Greater Hyderabad
HYDERABAD: Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has decided to assign critical responsibilities to the Disaster Management Department within Greater Hyderabad. He has directed officials to implement structural changes and redistribute responsibilities accordingly. In a review meeting at the Secretariat on Monday evening, the Chief Minister discussed the reorganization with officials from Municipal Administration, HMDA, and Musi Development.
Expansion of disaster management responsibilities
Recognizing the geographic expansion of Hyderabad, the Chief Minister ordered the Disaster Management Department to extend its jurisdiction to the Outer Ring Road. He suggested including GHMC, 27 surrounding municipalities and corporations, and 33 gram panchayats within its service area. The department will be renamed the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Monitoring Protection (HYDRA). The Chief Minister proposed appointing a DIG-level officer as the director and SP-level officers as additional directors. He also recommended special teams from GHMC, HMDA, the Water Board, city traffic, and other departments to join this new division.
The Chief Minister emphasized the need for the Disaster Management Department to offer continuous services to city residents, not just during floods or emergencies. HYDRA should actively address all issues faced by Hyderabad’s citizens, including preserving the city’s tanks and ponds, protecting government properties from encroachments, and managing hoardings and flex banners. Additionally, HYDRA will oversee water pipelines, electricity supply lines, drainage, flood management, and traffic control.
Focus on heritage and infrastructure projects
Chief Minister Reddy directed the acceleration of the Musi River Development Project, aiming to elevate Hyderabad’s international reputation. He stressed the importance of working towards the government’s goal of transforming this project into a landmark. He also ordered officials to take necessary actions to restore historical buildings and structures within the city. The GHMC presented a PowerPoint on various heritage sites, such as the City Library, Charminar Ayurvedic Hospital, and Nizamia Observatory etc. The Chief Minister encouraged exploring ways to develop these sites for tourism and integrating feasible ones into the Musi River Development Project.
The Chief Minister instructed Chief Secretary Shantikumar to draft a comprehensive reorganization plan, including staffing, duties, and budget allocations for HYDRA. He also emphasized identifying key areas where the Disaster Management Department can enhance its operations.
The meeting included Chief Secretary Shantikumar, Principal Secretary of Municipal Administration and Urban Development Danakishore, GHMC Commissioner Amrapali, GHMC Vigilance Disaster Management Commissioner A.V. Ranganath, and Hyderabad Water Board MD Ashok Reddy.
