One-way traffic in place of total pedestrianisation favoured

By Our Staff Reporter

HYDERABAD, AUG. 12. The Forum for Better Hyderabad and the Centre for Deccan Studies have suggested "moving back" those heritage buildings which come in the way of road widening as was done with the gates of the Public Gardens two decades ago.

Underscoring the need to protect heritage buildings, especially those built in the Qutb Shahi and Asaf Jahi period which suffered demolition or damage in recent times, the organisations wanted road alignments and urban designs taken up keeping in consideration the old architectural traditions and designs of Hyderabad.

The two bodies held a meeting here on Sunday to discuss the matter of Charminar pedestrianisation and the implementation of the road widening plans in the city. This was attended among others by Mr. Wali Qudri of the Islamic Heritage Foundation, Dr. Azhar Ansari, University of Minnesota, Prof. Yousuf Kamal, Osmania University, Mr. Milind Kollegal, architect, Dr. V.K. Bawa, President, Centre for Deccan Studies and Mr. R. Rajamani, Chief Convenor, Forum for Better Hyderabad, according to a press release.

The participants were of the opinion that public agencies like the MCH, Tourism Department and others should hold consultations with the local citizen organisations, specialists in architecture, environment groups and town planning before they take up major developmental works.

Instead of total pedestrianisation, one-way traffic should be allowed so that the interests of shopkeepers can be protected. In some areas, only light traffic like rickshaws or electric buses can be allowed and parking lots be maintained at different points for private vehicles, it was suggested.

The organisations urged the Archaeological Survey of India to use traditional material like lime plaster and modern scaffolding techniques while repairing and restoring the Charminar. The agency was asked not to make holes in the existing structure as it might cause damage to the structure. Adequate facilities in the walled city of Golconda should be provided preserving the character of its great architectural and aesthetic value, they appealed.

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