Businesses suffer as Hyderabad's roads crumble

Muhammad Saleem Memon, President of the Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders and Small Industry (HCSTSI), has expressed serious concern over the deteriorating condition of Auto Bhan Road, which is significantly affecting business activities and causing local traders to incur daily losses in the millions. He noted that thousands of vehicles use this road daily, but the presence of potholes, debris, and water accumulation is severely hampering traffic flow.

Memon highlighted that the Sindh government had allocated Rs15 billion for the restoration of Hyderabad's infrastructure in the 2022-23 budget, including road construction. However, no substantial or lasting work has been done on Auto Bhan Road. Despite the government's announcement at the beginning of 2023 regarding the restoration of a 30-kilometer road network, the condition of Auto Bhan Road remains unchanged. Temporary measures, such as laying bricks and stone powder, were undertaken but have proven inadequate and failed to fully alleviate public suffering.

In October 2023, Hyderabad Mayor Kashif Shoro inaugurated a project for the construction of Auto Bhan Road, which includes building a drainage channel and plans to widen the road from 36 feet to 44 feet on both sides. However, progress on this project has been sluggish, leading to not only disruptions in business activities but also significant hardships for residents.

The HCSTSI president emphasised the need for transparent use of funds allocated for the restoration of Auto Bhan Road and insisted that the quality of the project must not be compromised. He urged that planning should minimise inconvenience to citizens during the construction process and ensure that repairs and restoration are completed in a timely manner so business activities can continue uninterrupted.

He said the poor state of infrastructure is forcing many businesses to relocate to other areas, resulting in substantial financial losses for local traders. If this situation is not addressed promptly, it could lead to even greater financial setbacks in the future, posing a serious threat to the economy of Hyderabad.

Memon urged the government to commence repair work on this road immediately to alleviate the difficulties faced by the business community and residents. He also called on the government to expedite developmental projects and implement effective measures for infrastructure restoration to facilitate the city's progress and allow Hyderabad to regain its thriving business activities.