GHMC Launches Beggar-Free Street Drive in Hyderabad

In a bold and humane step toward transforming Hyderabad’s public spaces, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has kicked off a city-wide initiative aimed at clearing major roads and junctions of street beggars, without stripping away their dignity.

Launched on June 26, the ‘Beggar-Free Street’ campaign is more than just a clean-up drive. It’s a focused rehabilitation effort. At the heart of it lies a deep social concern, moving beyond quick fixes and offering the forgotten citizens of the city a second chance.

Key Areas Under the Beggar-Free Initiative

From Basheerbagh to Begum Bazar, Nampally to Secretariat, GHMC officials, working closely with the Hyderabad City Police, have identified high-traffic areas where begging has become a routine sight. Special teams are now on the ground, conducting spot checks and gently relocating individuals found begging at traffic signals, temples, and footpaths.

Each person is given a basic medical screening. Those with no families are moved into GHMC-run shelter homes. Others, after proper counselling, are reconnected with their families wherever possible.

Initial Relocation Figures

In just the first phase of the drive, 221 individuals have been relocated:

• 173 men
• 37 women
• 11 children

Of these, 19 have been moved into city shelter homes, while the rest have received counselling and were reunited with their families.

But GHMC says this is just the beginning.

Purpose Behind the Campaign

The mission isn’t about removing people from sight. It’s about giving them a chance to step off the pavements and onto a path of care, shelter, and stability. GHMC’s Urban Community Development (UCD) wing is spearheading the effort, slowly but consistently, forming dedicated task forces to monitor hotspots and follow up on relocated individuals.

More than a visual change, the ‘Beggar-Free Street’ campaign is meant to trigger something deeper. It’s a shift in how Hyderabad treats its most vulnerable.

Empathy in Action on Hyderabad’s Streets 

Cleaner junctions mean better traffic flow, fewer public complaints, and a more organized urban experience. But at its core, this is a social reintegration movement.

One that reminds us that rehabilitation doesn’t always begin inside buildings. Sometimes, it starts right on the streets, with empathy, structure, and a clear plan.

And for Hyderabad, this could mark the beginning of a kinder, better city.

        FAQs       

Why is GHMC conducting the Beggar-Free Street initiative?

The aim is to decongest traffic junctions, reduce public inconvenience, and offer rehabilitation and shelter to the homeless and those begging on the streets. 

Which areas are being targeted under Beggar-Free Street initiative?

The drive is currently focused on high-traffic areas like Basheerbagh, Secretariat, Nampally, Begum Bazar, and other key junctions under GHMC limits.

What happens to the beggars once they are relocated?

After medical checks, individuals are either shifted to GHMC-managed shelter homes or sent back to their families following counselling.

Is this a one-time campaign?

No, GHMC has confirmed it is a continuous effort. Special teams will regularly monitor and carry out relocation drives.

Who is responsible for managing this Beggar-Free Street initiative?

The Urban Community Development (UCD) wing of GHMC is leading the drive, in coordination with the Hyderabad City Police.