Hyderabad GHMC Clears Footpath Encroachments on April 18, 2026

On Saturday, April 18, 2026, GHMC removed many illegal structures from footpaths across Hyderabad. This is part of a bigger plan to make walking safer for everyone.
By Newsroom | Civic Issues, Hyderabad |

Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) authorities deployed heavy machinery, including earth movers and JCBs, on Saturday, April 18, 2026, to dismantle unauthorized extensions and structures encroaching upon city footpaths. The operation, described as a "citywide drive," targeted permanent, temporary, and illegal constructions across all six GHMC zones, aiming to restore pedestrian safety and accessibility.

The GHMC has initiated a broad offensive against obstructions on pedestrian walkways, employing earth-moving equipment to remove shop ramps and other constructions that impede public movement. This intensified campaign saw demolitions occurring in numerous areas, including Badangpet, Santoshnagar, Rajendra Nagar, Attapur, Karwan, Mehdipatnam, Khairatabad, Kavadiguda, Shamshabad, Charminar, Golconda, and Secunderabad Zones.

The stated objective behind this widespread clearance is to address the long-standing issue of footpath encroachments, which officials claim force pedestrians onto roadways, thereby increasing accident risks. The drive commenced early in the morning, with police personnel providing security during the demolition activities.

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Past Operations and Context

This latest push is not an isolated event. Records indicate similar drives have been conducted previously. In a notable instance on April 4, 2026, the GHMC reported clearing 798 encroachments in a single day. Further back, in February 2025, under an initiative dubbed "Operation ROPE" (Removal of Obstructive Parking and Encroachments), approximately 70 illegal structures were removed from the Gaganpahad to Katedan stretch. This same operation, a collaboration with city traffic police, reportedly cleared 744 encroachments over a two-month period ending in February 2025.

Officials have issued warnings of continued enforcement and potential fines for traders who persist in obstructing public walkways with sheds and other structures. The operations are framed as ongoing efforts to maintain clean, safe, and accessible public spaces. The GHMC has also been involved in projects aimed at traffic flow, such as directing the urgent completion of the KBR Park flyover, reviewed by Special Chief Secretary Jayesh Ranjan.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did GHMC use machines on footpaths in Hyderabad on April 18, 2026?
GHMC used machines like JCBs to remove illegal structures and extensions that were blocking footpaths. The goal was to make it safer and easier for people to walk.
Q: Which areas in Hyderabad were affected by the GHMC footpath drive on April 18, 2026?
The drive happened in many areas including Badangpet, Santoshnagar, Rajendra Nagar, Attapur, Karwan, Mehdipatnam, Khairatabad, Kavadiguda, Shamshabad, Charminar, Golconda, and Secunderabad Zones.
Q: What is the main reason for GHMC's footpath clearance drive in Hyderabad?
The main reason is to stop pedestrians from walking on the roads, which causes accidents. By clearing the footpaths, GHMC wants to ensure people can walk safely.
Q: Will GHMC continue removing footpath encroachments in Hyderabad?
Yes, GHMC has warned traders that they will continue enforcement and may fine those who block public walkways with sheds and other structures. They want to keep public spaces clean and safe.