Hyderabad: The landscape of the Old City is about to change dramatically as demolition work has begun to make way for the Metro rail extension.
Several properties along Mir Alam Mandi Road have already been demolished. Property owners who received compensation from the govt have begun the demolition, with some opting to carry out the work themselves.
“The streets that have been here for generations will disappear,” said Mohd Ibrahim, who runs a tea and newspaper stall in the area. “This area will never look the same as it did when I was a child. I hope the development will bring happiness to future generations.”
While some property owners are resistant to the changes, Mohsin, who owns a clothing store on Mir Alam Mandi Road, confirmed that four properties in the outer area have already been demolished.
Rajesh Sharma, owner of an attar shop in Shalibanda, expressed concern about the rapid pace of development. “We feel pressured to give up our properties at such short notice and the compensation could be more generous. Several property owners are trying to secure stay orders from the court.”
The impact goes beyond property ownership. “Thousands of people will lose their jobs. Each shop usually employs between two and 10 people. We hope the govt will provide alternative employment opportunities for those affected,” Sharma added.
“The change marks the end of an era for many of us who have spent our lives on these streets,” said Mohsin. “In time, even our shop will disappear into the dust to make way for progress.”
