Hyderabad: How fence at Begumpet Railway Station is turning out to be Berlin wall for 1000 domestic helps

Hyderabad: Over 1,000 domestic helps residing in the low-income group (LIG) areas of Matajinagar and Brahmanwadi in Begumpet are grappling with a livelihood crisis.

For decades, these women have provided essential services to over 2,500 households in Methodist Colony, Umanagar, and Kundanbagh by crossing the railway tracks near Begumpet Railway Station. However, a newly constructed wall by railway authorities has disrupted their daily routine.

Wall Blocks Railway Crossing

The wall was constructed to reduce accidents near the railway tracks, according to railway authorities. However, it has forced the workers to take a circuitous route via Begumpet Station and the road next to Lifestyle, adding nearly 2 kilometers to their commute.

This has significantly impacted their earnings. Many domestic workers earn between ₹4,000 and ₹5,000 per month, with some working in two to three homes. The increased distance and auto fares of ₹50–₹60 per trip have added to financial strain.

Maids Seek Regulated Access

Several affected women including Lavanya, Lalitha, Renuka, Padma, and Susheela, approached the United Federation of Resident Welfare Associations (UFERWAS) for help. They requested regulated access across the tracks until an underpass was constructed.

“Before taking up any such drastic measures, the social impact should be assessed involving all stakeholders. In this case, the maids should have been taken into confidence, and an underpass made before building walls or denying access,” said Maj Shiva Kiran, Vice President, UFERWAS.

Broader Issues Identified

The issue is not limited to Matajinagar and Brahmanwadi. According to UFERWAS, similar problems persist along the railway tracks from Raj Bhavan’s MS Makhta to Begumpet.

“During a field survey, we found that large stretches of the tracks remain unwalled, but priority was given to blocking access used by these workers. Garbage has also been deliberately dumped to prevent access,” said Maj Shiva Kiran.

Call for Government Action

The workers hope the government will address their concerns as part of its broader welfare initiatives. They expect a practical solution, such as the construction of an underpass or a regulated crossing, to safeguard their livelihoods.

“As the state celebrates ‘Vijayotsavalu’ and acknowledges the needs of various communities, we hope similar compassion will be extended to the maids of Matajinagar and Brahmanwadi,” said Maj Shiva Kiran. Efforts are ongoing to raise the issue with the concerned authorities.