GHMC neglect leaves foot overbridges in private hands
HYDERABAD: Several foot overbridges (FOBs) built under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model in Hyderabad remain under the control of private firms even after the expiry of contracts, depriving the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) of revenue and leaving pedestrians at risk.
One such structure, seen in the photo, is on the Gangaram Road in Chandanagar. It was built in 2017 by a private company under a PPP deal. According to the agreement, the firm was allowed to display advertisements on the bridge for three-and-a-half years to recover costs. After that period, ownership was to be transferred to GHMC.
However, due to alleged collusion between political leaders, engineers and advertising agencies, the bridge has remained with the private firm for the past five years. The company reportedly earns at least ₹6 lakh a month from advertisements, while maintenance of lifts and escalators meant for pedestrians has been neglected. GHMC officials have turned a blind eye to the issue, raising concerns over public safety and accountability.
Advertising revenue drops sharply
About a decade ago, GHMC’s advertising wing generated an annual income of ₹100 crore. After the formation of a new governing body in 2016, revenue has reportedly dropped to less than ₹20 crore. Officials are accused of fabricating disputes to allow old contractors to continue operating even after their tender periods ended.
For instance, a case involving hoardings on the Jubilee Hills Apollo Hospital Road has been pending for nearly 20 years, with no resolution from GHMC engineers. Similar irregularities exist near the Imax Theatre and Lakdikapul.
Tender disputes stall new contracts
Recently, GHMC invited tenders for the maintenance of 23 FOBs. However, insiders allege that the tender norms were framed to favour a contractor close to a local elected representative. When another senior leader insisted that half of the contracts be awarded to a firm of his choice, the tender process was halted. Officials have stated that fresh tenders will be called soon.
