HYDERABAD: Differences between two bosses of Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) have reached a flash point over construction of permanent gateways on the Outer Ring Road (ORR).
HMDA has lodged a complaint against GHMC in Raidurg and Gachibowli police stations for unauthorised construction of permanent gateways at Gachibowli and Pedda Amberpet junctions.
HMDA metropolitan commissioner Shalini Mishra has reportedly expressed displeasure over the misuse of power by the GHMC for the unauthorised constructions. GHMC did not obtain valid permissions from the HMDA or Hyderabad Growth Corridor Limited (HGCL), a wing of the HMDA.
HMDA complianed that despite stopping construction, the civic body is deliberately carrying out construction with the support of its Enforcement Cell.
The HMDA has asked the police to take necessary action and stop the construction of gateway works by GHMC with immediate effect.
In the last few days, GHMC has raised 7-inch wide pillars for construction of gateways (welcome arches) on ORR at the two junctions in connection with the State Formation Day celebrations.
HMDA officials told Express that as per the rules gateways, arches and hoardings along the ORR are not allowed as they would divert the attention of the drivers that could lead to accidents.
They said that the speed limit on ORR is about 120 kmph, even distraction for a few seconds by the drivers can lead to major accidents.
Though the GHMC approached HMDA seeking permission for construction of gateways, the latter turned down the proposal stating that in view of the rules, any form of gateways or arches on ORR cannot be allowed. But the GHMC went ahead with the construction of arches and raised pucca pillars up to few feet height at the two sites.
Meanwhile, action is being contemplated against HMDA employees for allowing gateway constructions.
When contacted, Shalini Mishra said that she was on leave and presently in Delhi and was not aware of what was happening in Hyderabad and therefore did not want to comment on the issue.
GHMC special officer Somesh Kumar said the corporation has applied for permission for gateways more than a month ago and hoped they would get the nod. “If there are any issues or objections from the HMDA we will try to sort it out at the earliest,” he said.