Hyderabad sources stated that the GHMC has decided to put on hold the facade development that was to be part of the Charminar Pedestrianisation Project. Meanwhile a corporation official said that after discussing the matter with the state government, it was felt that the facade development is not viable as it will cost Rs 30 crore, which the civic body cannot spare. Hence the corporation then reduced the budget from Rs 30 crore to Rs 8 crore, but that will not be sufficient to renovate even 50% of the properties.
Reportedly GHMC officials claim they cannot renovate even 60% of the properties with the current funds and private agencies will not come forward to fund the project under corporate social responsibility. Furthermore a senior GHMC official said the developmental activities include uniform display boards and giving shops in Laad Bazaar a heritage facade.
Accordingly he said that the decrease in funds has been a major disappointment for the corporation. Moreover the corporation as of now has zeroed in on three properties for renovation based on the outcome of the budget proposals that will be submitted to the state government for enhancement.
