GHMC Launches Eco-Friendly Model Footpath Project in Filmnagar, Hyderabad
Table of Contents
Source: Deccan Chronicle
Relevance: Paper -III (Urban governance) Paper-V (Science & Technology)
Key Concepts for Prelims and Mains:
For Prelims:
- GHMC (Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation), Solar Grid System (10 kWp), HDPE, PET, MLP, LDPE, LLDPE (Plastic Types)
For Mains:
Sustainable Urban Infrastructure, Eco-friendly Construction Technologies, Waste-to-Resource Innovations (Plastic Recycling)
Why in News?
The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has launched a Model Footpath Project along a major pedestrian corridor in Jubilee Hills—from Ramanaidu Studio Junction to BVB Junction. The project aims to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility through eco-friendly, sustainable infrastructure.
Project Overview
- Implementing Agency: GHMC,
- Project Cost: ₹1.68 crore
- Purpose:
- Improve walkability
- Enhance road safety
- Promote eco-friendly, non-motorized mobility
- Modernize urban streetscapes
Eco-Friendly Construction: Recycled Plastic Paver Blocks
A major innovation of this project is the use of recycled plastic paver blocks instead of conventional concrete tiles.
Key Features
Composition:
- 65–70% post-consumer plastic waste (MLP, LDPE, LLDPE)
- Remaining: fillers + mineral additives
Specifications:
- Zig-zag modular design (225 mm × 112 mm × 50 mm)
- Compressive strength ≥ 35 MPa
- Made using recycled HDPE and PET
Environmental Benefits
- Diverts large quantities of plastic waste from landfills
- Encourages circular economy in urban construction
- Reduces carbon footprint compared to cement tiles
Smart Infrastructure: Solar-Powered Pedestrian Corridor
The footpath will house a 10 kWp Solar Grid System, adding a green energy component to urban mobility.
Main Components
- 600 Wp+ solar panels (Renewsys / Saatvik / Emmvee)
- 10 kW grid-tied inverter (Solis / GoodWe / Sungrow)
- 8–10 ft MS mounting structures
- Automated cleaning system
- AC & DC distribution boxes with protection
- Lightning arrestor and earthing
Benefits
- Generates clean electricity
- Provides shaded areas along the footpath
- Reduces urban heat impact
- Supports GHMC’s smart city and sustainability goals
Inclusive Design: Accessibility for All
To ensure universal access, the footpath includes:
- Tactile pavers & guiding strips for the visually impaired
- Barrier-free pathways promoting safe movement
- Compliance with Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPwD), 2016
This reinforces GHMC’s emphasis on inclusive urban infrastructure.
GHMC’s Broader Vision for Urban Transformation
The Model Footpath Project is part of GHMC’s strategy to:
- Enhance walkability across Hyderabad
- Improve non-motorized transport (NMT) systems
- Adopt eco-conscious materials in public projects
- Strengthen safe, accessible pedestrian networks
- Modernize and beautify public spaces in high-density zones
The Corporation aims to complete the project on time and set a replicable model for other corridors in Hyderabad.
Conclusion
GHMC’s Model Footpath Project in Filmnagar marks a significant step in sustainable, people-centric urban transformation. By integrating recycled materials, solar energy, and accessibility features, Hyderabad is moving toward a modern, greener, and more inclusive urban mobility framework, setting an example for other Indian cities aiming to upgrade their pedestrian infrastructure.
CARE MCQ
Q. With reference to post-consumer plastic waste, which of the following are typical examples?
- Single-use food containers
- Plastic cups
- Plastic glasses
- Plastic bottles
How many of the above are included in post-consumer plastic waste?
(a) Only two
(b) Only three
(c) Only one
(d) All four
Correct Answer: (d) All four