Date:11/10/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/10/11/stories/2006101121960300.htm

Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad

Dengue threat looms large

The sanitary infrastructure of the city seems to be crumbling. Overflowing bins, choked nalas, burst pipelines and stagnant pools of water -- the stamp of neglect is there for everyone to see.

Sure, the main roads present the illusion of a clean city. Take a walk into the narrow lanes and the image goes for a toss. Garbage dumps and sewage spill-overs greet one at every corner -- the tall claims of baldiya notwithstanding.

If the dreaded dengue spreads in Hyderabad it wouldn't be a surprise. The apathy of the Municipal Corporation of Hyderabad and the indifference of people provide the right conditions for its outbreak.

A team of The Hindu scribes fanned out in different parts of the twin cities to find out the conditions prevailing on the civic front.

The situation is as appalling in Talab Katta, Syed Ali Chabutra as in the posh Banjara Hills, Chikkadpally, Tolichowki and Masab Tank. It is no better in Gunrock, S.R. Nagar, Addagutta, Bathkamma Kunta. Even the areas on the city outskirts like Chandanagar, Hydernagar, Lingampally, Miyapur present an awful sight.