Minibuses to ply in Moula Ali

Moula Ali: Residents of Moula Ali, who had to walk two kilometres to board a bus, can now heave a sigh of relief as minibuses to Afzalgunj, Malkajgiri, Secunderabad, and Kushaiguda will soon ply in the area.

Highlights:

• Entry of heavy vehicles was restricted 8 years ago in the area to protect the heritage structure, Moula Ali Kamman
• Nearest bus stop from the area relocated to 2km forcing commuters to walk
• Minibuses to Afzalgunj, Malkajgiri, Secunderabad, and Kushaiguda to start soon

About eight years ago the entry of heavy vehicles under the Moula Ali Kaman was restricted after they posed a threat to the heritage structure. Ever since, TSRTC buses plying from ECIL X Roads to Secunderabad were rerouted through bus stops at Zonal Training Centre and Unani Hospital causing inconvenience to the public.

It is to be noted that most of the populace in the area were dependent on public transport and shifting of bus stops caused major problems for students and working professionals.

Women felt unsafe to walk two kilometres to board a bus or to reach home at nights as many cases of chain snatching were reported in the area. Moreover, the fear of stalkers intimidating women and girls heightened over time. Children too faced a lot of problems as they had to walk long distances with heavy bags before they could board a bus.

Several representations were submitted by former Councillor Alhaj Md Ayub Ali along with the residents of Moula Ali requesting TSRTC to resume transport services to the area. MLC Mynampally Hanumantha Rao and Malkajgiri MLA C Kanaka Reddy too forwarded the proposal to the Minister of Transport, Dr P Mahendar Reddy after consultations with Nizamabad MP Kalvakuntla Kavitha.

As a result, the TSRTC has given a clearance of running minibuses in the area for the convenience of the commuters keeping in mind the safety of Moula Ali Arch.

"It has been difficult for us to find alternate ways of travelling. Over one lakh people live in Moula Ali.

When the government cut off public transport in our area, we were all very disappointed. But, we are happy that our efforts have borne satisfying results," said Ali.

The two old bus stops at Moula Ali entrance would be soon restored to accommodate passengers and ease out traffic burden at the Kaman. It is said that a team of RTC officials will be conducting a survey of areas around Moula Ali on Monday to determine the routes that would be covered by the minibuses.

To ensure that the Moula Ali Kaman remains protected, local leaders and residents agreed for road expansion in areas around the arch to let two-wheelers and lighter vehicles to pass.