Hyderabad's Salar Jung Bridge: A Hazardous Commuting Route Amid Garbage Crisis

Hyderabad, India – The Salar Jung Bridge in Dar-ul-Shifa has become a perilous route for commuters, particularly during the rainy season, as a combination of garbage accumulation and inadequate maintenance has resulted in frequent accidents. Local residents and commuters have expressed their concerns, urging the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) to address the situation urgently.

The bridge, a crucial link for residents of Dar-ul-Shifa and surrounding areas, has been rendered slippery and hazardous due to a nearby garbage point that serves as a Secondary Collection and Transfer Point (SCTP). This site, which processes approximately 1,500 metric tonnes of garbage daily, has contributed to the hazardous conditions on the bridge, especially during the monsoon season.

According to Mohammed Ahmed, a resident of Dabeerpura, “A large number of accidents have occurred where commuters skidded due to the slippery road. Several deaths were also reported in recent years.” He noted that in recent rainfalls, instances of multiple motorcycles skidding on the bridge were alarming, with severe injuries reported among victims.

Chakali Shailender, another regular commuter, highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating, “The GHMC can at least clean the muck from the road daily to ensure it is not slippery. This can save the commuters from skidding and accidents.” Despite numerous representations made to GHMC officials, including Mayor Gadwal Vijayalakshmi and the GHMC Commissioner, residents report that their pleas have gone unanswered.

The environmental impact of the open dumping yard is also a significant concern, as it is located in a densely populated residential area. Firasat Baqri, a resident of Noor Khan Bazar, explained, “The dumping yard has become a disaster for the people residing nearby. Residents are suffering from vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, and other health issues, especially affecting children.”

The accumulation of garbage not only creates a slippery road but also facilitates the growth of mosquitoes and other pests, exacerbating public health risks. The combination of foul odors and disease proliferation has led residents to urgently call for the relocation of the garbage station to a non-residential area, away from the bridge and local communities.

In response to the concerns raised, GHMC officials have stated that they are aware of the issues but have not provided a clear timeline for any remedial actions. The situation remains dire, as commuters continue to risk their safety daily while navigating the slippery conditions of the bridge.

As Hyderabad's infrastructure continues to struggle under the weight of its growing population, the plight of residents and commuters in Dar-ul-Shifa serves as a stark reminder of the need for improved waste management and public safety measures. Failure to act could see the bridge remain a death trap for commuters, with potentially tragic consequences in the future.