Hyderabad citizens urge clean, well-maintained public toilets amid sanitation crisis
Hyderabad: Hyderabad grapples with a sanitation crisis as the lack of public toilets and poor maintenance of existing facilities lead to rampant public urination. Frustrated residents demand stricter action against violators while calling for the construction of clean and well-maintained public washrooms across the city.
While speaking to Hyderabad Mail, M.A. Ahmed, a resident, highlighted several pressing issues regarding public sanitation in the city. He pointed out that many locations have become permanent spots for urination, indicating a significant lack of proper facilities. Even commercial hubs like Ranigunj have open toilets without maintenance, making them unsuitable for use.
Ahmed suggested the installation of bio-toilets, especially in prominent areas like Tank Bund, to mitigate these problems. He criticized the government for neglecting essential amenities such as garbage bins, leading to widespread littering on roadsides and exacerbating sanitation issues.
To address these challenges comprehensively, Ahmed proposed public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about cleanliness, regular maintenance of existing facilities, stricter enforcement of anti-littering laws, and increased infrastructure development for public toilets and waste management.
Bad road condition at dumpyard shivaji bridge Sultan shahi @GHMCOnline @HakkuInitiative @Team_Road_Squad @HYDTrafficMan pic.twitter.com/mYo65jKRKs
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He also emphasized the importance of community involvement in maintaining cleanliness through volunteer efforts and local engagement programs. These measures, he argued, are crucial for improving hygiene standards and enhancing the quality of public spaces in Hyderabad.
Sai Teja, a resident, said, “The Swachh Bharat campaign led to the installation of numerous public toilets, supported by grants from the Central and State Governments to eliminate open urination. However, merely installing washrooms is insufficient; the government must also ensure their maintenance. Unpleasant odors deter people from using these facilities, leading to public reluctance and outdoor urination. It’s regrettable that in India, restroom usage often incurs fees. I urge the government to prioritize the upkeep of public washrooms for the campaign’s success, possibly implementing advanced automated systems akin to those in foreign countries.”
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.
