GHMC gets an earful from HC judge for lackadaisical approach

EXPRESSING severe dissatisfaction over the casual and ineffective approach of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) in addressing public grievances and complying with court directives, Justice K Lakshman of the Telangana High Court on Thursday suggested that the GHMC commissioner discuss with the Principal Secretary the need for amendments to the Telangana State Building Permission Approval and Self-Certification System (TS-bPASS) to delegate appropriate powers.

- EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @Hyderabad

The court was hearing a writ petition regarding the demolition of a staircase, sealing of a building and disconnection of power supply at a commercial property in Tolichowki, allegedly without considering the petitioner's representation.

GHMC Commissioner K Ilambarithi, who appeared before the court as directed, was questioned by the judge regarding the GHMC's failure to respond to civil court injunction orders and the absence of representation despite service of urgent notices. The court noted that a civil judge had issued notices and provided multiple opportunities for the civic body to respond, yet it failed to contest the petition. Consequently, the civil court proceeded to issue ex parte orders.