Allottees decry delay in 2BHK construction

Secunderabad: The Telangana government's ambitious double-bedroom housing scheme in Old Marredpally Basti is facing a roadblock as the construction works are likely to be delayed because of differences between the builders and residents.

The residents allege that the officials have not fulfilled the demands that were made at the time of demolition of slums. They added further that they had vacated their slums about two years ago, with the assurance from the state government and GHMC officials for construction of 2BHK houses for them along with a community hall with parking facilities and an Anganwadi center for kids.

Sanjay Kumar, a resident of the basti, shared, "Two years back the corporation and political leaders convinced the dwellers to vacate the slum to start construction of double bedroom houses.

At present 2BHK houses are under construction and the final date of inauguration has not been out till date also the promised community hall and other amenities which were promised are not ready yet. When asked about the estimated time of completion of the project the corporation says it will take another six to seven months."

The basti before demolition had 235 houses with around 1,200 residents. The government allotted 436 rooms for the residents at an estimated cost of Rs 43 crore. Nearly 400 families who stayed in the basti had shifted to places like Neredmet, Tukaramgate, Malkajgiri; Bowenpally, etc., after demolition, due to which they had to move to rented houses, which increased their financial burden.

The residents also wrote to MRO, DRO, and Collector requesting them to wrap up the construction soon and consider the construction of the amenities that were promised as many residents are facing it difficult to make a living in rented houses.

Lamenting about his financial distress, Sanjay another local resident said, "I earn Rs 18,000 per month and every month, I have to spend half of my salary on rent and other amenities, which is burdening my pocket. Due to the delay in the work many people are suffering and have spent around lakhs last two years."

When contacted, the Secunderabad Cantonment MLA G Sayanna said, "I have promised the residents the construction of the community hall and the Anganwadi center will be constructed with the MLA funds as promised and the works will start soon."