Hyderabad citizens urge metro authorities to install parking sheds amid scorching heat
Hyderabad: Amid rising temperatures across Telangana, citizens in Secunderabad have raised concerns over the lack of shaded parking facilities at the JBS Parade Ground Metro Station. With the city in the grip of a severe heatwave, many people have taken to social media to urge metro authorities to install proper sheds to protect vehicles from the scorching sun.
The issue gained public attention after a post by a user named Hi Secunderabad (@ApnaSecbad) went viral. “Vehicles getting burnt in the sun. The metro authorities should think of installing sheds. Won’t cost them much,” the post read.
Vehicles getting burnt in the sun. The metro authorities should think of installing sheds. Won’t cost them much. pic.twitter.com/iVafI1Mf8t
— Hi Secunderabad!! (@ApnaSecbad) April 24, 2025
Public suggestions have since poured in, with many calling for sustainable solutions. One user, Visionary (@Visionary283714), proposed a design that includes two-wheeler parking at the ground level and four-wheeler parking above, all covered with solar panels to generate electricity and provide shade.
Another user cited an example from Johannesburg, where similar solar-panel-covered parking spaces have existed since 2016. “This is one idea which can be a win-win situation for both the public and the exchequer,” he noted, sharing photos for reference.
This is from one of the parking lot in Johannesburg which they built solar panels in the parking lot back in 2016…. This is one idea which can be win win situation for the people and to the exchequer!#GoGreen pic.twitter.com/PaousnLzZy
— ๒ђครкคг 𝕏 (@shivsun) April 24, 2025
The conversation intensified after a two-wheeler caught fire near Kukatpally Y Junction on April 7, reportedly due to the extreme heat. The incident, which occurred in the afternoon, caused panic among onlookers. According to eyewitnesses, the fire started suddenly, and residents nearby responded quickly with buckets of water and cement bags from nearby shops to prevent the flames from spreading. While the vehicle was nearly destroyed, no injuries were reported. Police arrived shortly after and managed the situation.
A resident named Venkat pointed out the untapped potential of solar energy. “At least 1 MW of solar power can be generated while providing shade to bikes and cars. Not sure why the metro is not thinking in that direction,” he said. Another citizen, Sai Kumar, said similar issues are faced at the Hitex Exhibition Centre, where visitors often leave their vehicles exposed to extreme heat. “Many cars and two-wheelers face the same issue during expos,” he added. “Solar sheds would actually generate electricity,” noted another user, Prithvi Raj, reinforcing the broader public sentiment.
In response to the ongoing heatwave, the Telangana government has issued an advisory through the Office of the Director of Public Health and Family Welfare. Citizens are being encouraged to stay hydrated by drinking water regularly, even if they are not thirsty. Homemade drinks like lemon water, buttermilk, and fruit juices are also recommended. The advisory urges people to eat seasonal fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumber, and grapes, to help maintain hydration levels.
People venturing outdoors are advised to wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothing and to cover their heads with hats, umbrellas, or towels to avoid direct sunlight. Wearing proper footwear is also recommended to avoid burns from hot surfaces. The government has suggested avoiding outdoor activity during peak heat hours, particularly between 12 p.m. and 3 p.m., and recommends staying indoors in cool, well-ventilated areas during the day.
The advisory also warns against consuming alcohol, tea, coffee, carbonated drinks, and sugary beverages, as these can contribute to dehydration. Citizens are also urged to avoid cooking during peak heat hours unless the area is well ventilated, and to steer clear of high-protein, spicy, or stale foods.
Common signs of heat-related illness include dizziness, fainting, nausea, dry skin, and body temperature above 40°C. In such cases, immediate medical attention is advised.
As the city continues to battle intense summer heat, many residents are hopeful that metro and civic authorities will take swift action to implement shaded parking and explore solar-powered solutions that can serve both practical and environmental goals.
