HYDERABAD: As the city gears up for a Sunday filled with political events hosted by all prominent parties in the name of ‘Hyderabad Liberation’, an overwhelming number of large flexes and party banners that are dotting the landscape have raised concerns among commuters and pedestrians. The BRS, BJP, Congress, and AIMIM are all slated to hold huge gatherings prompting a surge in campaign materials, akin to peak electioneering days.
While Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao is scheduled to hoist the flag at Public Gardens in the morning, Union Home Minister Amit Shah is holding a public meeting at Parade Ground. Elsewhere AIMIM will take out a Tiranga bike rally, while the Congress party is gearing up for a massive gathering at Tukkuguda, featuring the Gandhi family, AICC chief Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress Working Committee (CWC) members, and Telangana Congress leaders.
"Monsoon bringing sharp spells could pose a danger to public safety, particularly in adverse weather conditions. While political events are an essential part of democracy, ensuring the well-being of the people must remain the priority," said Kona Mahat, an IT professional and activist.
Expressing concerns, several residents took to social media platforms like X, calling on GHMC, enforcement, vigilance, and disaster management (EVDM) officials to address the issue of oversized banners and ensure public safety.
"The safety of commuters and pedestrians must not be overlooked. Responsible placement and maintenance of campaign material can prevent accidents," Narender Armoor tweeted.
Fears about the impact of oversized banners stem from past incidents. In some cases, these behemoth banners toppled onto the roads, endangering the lives of those below and the passersby. One unfortunate incident in June involved a BRS banner that fell on a motorist, inflicting injuries despite his helmet and causing profuse bleeding.
Apart from such hazards, these banners are left dangerously on the road, creating risks for both vehicles and pedestrians, said Anjana P, a motorist.
"They sometimes obstruct the view, leading to potential accidents or get entangled in traffic, causing further congestion. Moreover, the unauthorised and haphazard placement of such banners often contravenes regulations," she added.
Commuters and pedestrians, particularly with the onset of the rainy season, fear that life-size banners could prove even more perilous. The slick surfaces and gusty winds, typical of monsoon, increase the risk of such banners becoming hazardous projectiles.
Bala Swaroop, told Deccan Chronicle, "City authorities are seemingly blind to these perils or remain oblivious, so we're doing our bit to call them out on social media. We urge them to take swift action and remedial measures besides maintaining order during political gatherings. Once done, the worn-out banners pose an even higher risk."
