HYDERABAD: To put an end to dumping of garbage on roadsides, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) is converting the dump sites into food or vegetable vending zones across the city.
Following recommendation of local MLAs, the initiative was rolled out and proven to be a success at Makkah Colony in Kalapathar and Vijay Nagar Colony in Masab Tank. Residents affirmed that new Tadban road in Makkah Colony, which was an eyesore before, has transformed into a vegetable vending zone.
“The civic authorities usually clear it every week. But, in a span of two days, the place becomes a complete mess again. Along with this, the more important solution that GHMC needs to focus on is regular door-to-door collection of garbage,” Salma Sultana, a local resident and teacher, said.
More recently at Vijay Nagar Colony, the GHMC turned an entire stretch that was filled with tonnes of piled-up garbage into a food vending zone. “The garbage dump stood adjacent to a hospital and also near a school affecting both patients and children,” civic activist Mohammed Abid told TOI. After multiple complaints, Jaffar Hussain Merah, MLA of Nampally, approached the GHMC with the idea.
Mohammed Shareef, a beneficiary of the vending zone who runs a small eatery, said the place which was reeking with stench has transformed into a fancy hangout spot. “The idea doesn’t just solve the garbage dumping issue but also provides livelihood for people like us. Considering the intention of the idea, we segregate our waste and ensure that it is disposed of properly,” Shareef said.