Cantt board member warns of potential dangers in SCB-GHMC merger

The nominated member of the Secunderabad Cantonment Board (SCB), J Ramakrishna, opposes the merger of SCB with GHMC due to concerns from the Ministry of Defence (MoD). He believes that the State government has neglected SCB and is pushing for the merger mainly for the land bank within SCB limits. Ramakrishna also mentioned that security concerns may arise with urbanization and high-rise constructions if the merger goes through. SCB residents are worried about traffic congestion and commercialization of open plots.

Ramakrishna emphasized that once civilian areas are merged with GHMC, residents will face heavy urbanization and security issues due to high-rise buildings. He also mentioned that 80% of SCB residents are against the merger and suggested that the State government should focus on repaying pending funds instead of pursuing the merger. Currently, property registration stamp duty in SCB is 11%, higher than GHMC’s 7.5%, and residents may benefit from improved town planning and increased floor space index (FSI) if the merger happens.

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Some SCB residents disagree with Ramakrishna’s statement and believe that the merger is necessary for proper development. They argue that SCB lacks basic civic facilities and follows outdated British-era rules, while GHMC is more advanced in every aspect.

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