The roads in the Old City of Hyderabad were recently widened to ease traffic congestion. However, these efforts have been undermined by illegal parking, especially by hotels, restaurants, and other commercial establishments. These businesses are taking up multiple rows of parking space on the newly widened roads, making the roads just as congested as they were before.
Local residents are frustrated by the situation. Despite multiple complaints to the traffic police, no action has been taken against these illegal encroachments. Many express concerns that the police might be colluding with business owners, allowing them to continue with these violations.
Mohammed Ahmed, a local activist, highlighted that chaotic parking is a major issue in several areas such as Himmatpura, Fateh Darwaza, Shalibanda, and Khilwath Road. He shared that during peak hours, the illegal parking along these stretches causes severe traffic jams, particularly affecting areas with schools, colleges, and shopping centers. Ahmed also pointed out that he had reported these issues to the Falaknuma Traffic Police, but no changes have been made.
The problem isn’t limited to just one or two areas. Similar situations can be seen in Baba Nagar, Chandrayangutta, Moin Bagh, Moghapura, and several other localities. Popular hotels and restaurants, including Rumaan Hotel, Redaan, and Imperial, are among the establishments contributing to this issue.
Residents like Venkatesh from Lal Darwaza are urging the traffic police to take immediate action against these businesses. They believe that the roads, which were widened to improve traffic flow, should be freed from illegal parking so that they can serve their intended purpose.
A few years ago, the GHMC and the police department conducted joint operations to clear such illegal encroachments and even revoked trade licenses of businesses found in violation. Residents believe similar measures should be taken again to solve the ongoing traffic problems in the Old City.
