Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has explained the unusual circumstances behind the opening of a newly constructed road in Hyderabad despite electricity poles still standing in the middle of the road. He described the decision as part of a “grand plan” aimed at putting pressure on the Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO) to complete the relocation of the obstructing poles.
The road, which connects Alamdar Chowk with Qasim Chowk and the Old National Highway, recently attracted widespread public attention after photographs and videos showed electricity poles positioned along the newly paved stretch. The situation raised questions about planning, coordination and the execution of infrastructure projects in the city.
The unusual placement of electricity poles has become a topic of discussion among residents and social media users. Many questioned why authorities proceeded with the construction and opening of the road without first ensuring that the electricity infrastructure had been shifted.
However, CM Murad Ali Shah has offered a different explanation for the decision. According to his remarks, opening the road before the removal of the poles was a deliberate move rather than an oversight. The strategy was intended to increase pressure on HESCO and encourage the power distribution company to complete the pending relocation work.
The chief minister referred to the approach as a “grand plan”, suggesting that making the unfinished work visible would push the relevant authorities to take action. The move also highlights the coordination challenges that can emerge when road development projects involve multiple government departments and utility service providers.
Electricity poles and other utility installations often create difficulties during road construction and expansion. Their relocation requires coordination between municipal authorities, development agencies and electricity distribution companies. Delays in this process can affect construction timelines and create inconvenience for commuters.
In Hyderabad, the road connecting Alamdar Chowk, Qasim Chowk and the Old National Highway is an important urban route. Its development is expected to improve connectivity between different parts of the city. However, the electricity poles remaining in the middle of the newly constructed road have raised concerns about traffic movement and road safety.
For motorists, pedestrians and other road users, the presence of these structures can create potential hazards, particularly during busy hours. Drivers may have to navigate around the poles, while pedestrians could face additional difficulties when crossing the road.
The situation has also renewed public discussion about the importance of completing essential utility relocation work before opening newly developed roads. Better coordination between government departments and electricity companies could help prevent similar problems in future infrastructure projects.
The next important step is for HESCO to complete the relocation of the electricity poles so that the road can be used without unnecessary obstructions. Until the work is completed, the unusual arrangement is likely to remain a subject of public attention.
CM Murad Ali Shah’s explanation has shifted the discussion from the appearance of the road to the administrative strategy behind its opening. Whether the approach successfully accelerates HESCO’s work will become clearer once the electricity poles are removed and the newly constructed road is fully accessible to commuters.