Hyderabad: Amid growing anxiety over the proposed elevated corridor from Paradise to Kompally via Bowenpally, residents of Secunderabad Cantonment and civic representatives have urged the authorities to consider an alternative alignment that would protect homes, prayer halls, temples, mosques, dargahs, and graveyards from demolition.Locals said that the proposed alignment passes through thickly populated residential zones and sensitive religious sites, especially near the Tadbund Muslim burial ground. “We’re not against development, but it cannot come at the cost of our homes and sacred spaces,” said Manoj Bodi, a resident of Tadbund, expressing concern over possible evictions and disruptions.Community members, supported by Cantonment Board former vice-president Jakkula Maheshwar Reddy and ex-member Pandu Yadav, submitted a request to SCB CEO Madhukar Naik, asking for a fresh survey to explore a less intrusive route. They suggested that the corridor begin at Balamrai junction, take a tunnel route behind the Muslim graveyard, and connect through Old Airport Road and the former runway stretch — an option they believe would reduce displacement and preserve religious harmony.They also proposed limiting the road width from 200 feet to 150 feet to avoid large-scale demolitions and enable a more community-sensitive project. “If the alignment is slightly adjusted, the project can go forward without harming homes, temples, mosques or graveyards. That’s all we’re asking,” said Maheshwar Reddy, speaking on behalf of several residents who have lived in the area for decades.In addition to religious structures, locals fear the loss of access to key public spaces and institutions. “Once something is demolished, it cannot be replaced—not a dargah, not a burial ground. The government must tread carefully,” added Sadanand, a senior citizen from Bowenpally.
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