Hyderabad citizens complain of dirty public spaces 

Hyderabad: Public spaces in the city, especially flyovers and metro pillars, are losing their aesthetic touch, with many turning black due to dirt and lack of maintenance. Citizens have repeatedly complained, not only about the lack of upkeep but also about foul smells, as many spit paan and gutka on the walls.

“Compound walls of public places too have turned black and are filled with dirt. Even road dividers have three colours, which are yellow, black and red as people love spitting wherever they like,” said Pratiksha Joshi, who works for a software company in the city.

Flyover pillars are black in colour

Residents said that while half the metro pillars are painted in white, some were filled with art and advertisements, but with no umbrella theme. Even in such places, the artworks on metro pillars have become lighter, half-vanished and turned black.

Citizens also complained that metro pillars have turned into advertisement corners for political parties.

“We see ‘long live Modi’ being painted on some walls, or see several posters of BRS leaders and BJP posters and flags. Some event posters, which are extremely old, are stuck on public places. The plastic flags of a political party tied on a flyover got wrapped around my neck and it was a scary situation. Who is responsible for this,” said Rahul Dave, an insurance student.

Anuradha Reddy, INTACH, Hyderabad Chapter, said, “Fifty years ago, we used to get notices from the officials every year to paint our houses to give the city a neater look. But now, even what is made beautiful is not maintained, turning the city shabby and gloomy.”

Students, however, were an optimistic lot. “Something is better than nothing. We had zero artwork in the city. But now it is at least attractive,” said Abdul Adil, accompanied by Naveen Prasad, both of whom are Intermediate students.

Many were also of the opinion that street art was not essential.

“While it is true that some of the artwork may need some sprucing up, it cannot be the priority in a civic administration, where very basic amenities such as waste management, sanitation, roads, street lighting and stormwater drainage are grossly inadequate,” Sumedha, a public policy professional, said.