Hyderabad: Cable wire removal in Hyderabad began on Tuesday after Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka directed power utilities to clear unauthorised cables from electricity poles across Telangana. DISCOM officials initiated the operation in several areas of Greater Hyderabad, pulling down hanging wires that posed serious risks to public safety. The move immediately caused short-term internet and Wi-Fi disruptions for households and businesses.
According to officials, cable operators had ignored repeated warnings for more than a year. They stressed that loosely hanging cables increase the risk of accidents, especially during monsoons. The government also cited the recent Ramanthapur incident, which highlighted the dangers of mixing electricity and communication lines.
Safety first, protests follow
While DISCOM prioritised safety, cable operators launched protests at the Southern DISCOM office. They argued that the cables do not conduct electricity and denied responsibility for the accident. Operators further warned that cable removal could impact lakhs of jobs and disrupt employees working from home.
Officials clarified that the state government would not compromise on public safety. They stated that operators must realign cables safely through underground ducts or face permanent removal. The drive will continue across Hyderabad and extend to other Telangana districts in phases.
Why the drive matters
The government believes the cable wires removal initiative will not only reduce fire and electrocution risks but also improve the urban landscape. Residents have long complained about tangled wires that damage street aesthetics and complicate repairs. With stricter enforcement, the state hopes to ensure safer power distribution and streamlined digital connectivity.
