Hyderabad: Malkajgiri BJP MP Eatala Rajender on Wednesday alleged that the newly appointed Cantonment CEO’s functioning had hampered Cantonment development works and effective utilisation of available funds.
Rajender made the allegation while attending a foundation-laying ceremony for cement concrete roads as the chief guest. The road works covered SBI Colony, Chandulal Bowli and Jaya Nagar Colony. They were taken up with Cantonment funds at an estimated cost of Rs 59 lakh.
Rajender described the Cantonment as one of the most beautiful and hygienic areas in the twin cities. He cited its parks, low-rise buildings and infrastructure while highlighting its distinctive character.
However, the BJP MP alleged that contractors had become reluctant to undertake works because of the CEO’s conduct. Consequently, development projects faced delays while available funds remained under-utilised, he claimed.
Cantonment development works need better fund utilisation
Rajender said the situation surrounding Cantonment development works had prompted some people to question the area’s administrative future. According to him, some had begun asking whether the Cantonment should eventually be merged with the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation.
He said nominated board member Banuka Narmada Mallikarjun had been working to provide civic amenities in the area. Moreover, Rajender said he had approached the Centre seeking around Rs 18 crore in funds. Efforts were also underway to use pending tax and stamp-duty revenues for public works, he added.
The MP stressed the need to ensure that available financial resources were effectively deployed for improving civic infrastructure. Rajender also appealed to officials not to harass street vendors, small shopkeepers and petty traders in the Cantonment area.
He said many educated people and economically weaker residents depended on small businesses for their livelihoods. “Do not jeopardise the livelihoods of the poor,” Rajender said. He urged officials and public representatives to show greater sensitivity towards petty traders while carrying out administrative and civic measures.