date: July 12th, 2024

To

The Honourable Chief Minister of Telangana,
Sri Anumula Revanth Reddy Garu,
Secretariat, Hyderabad.

Dear Chief Minister Anumula Revanth Reddy Garu, 

Subject: Request for the Expeditious and Effective Implementation of 24/7 Shop and Establishment Operations in Hyderabad, Telangana

With utmost respect, I bring to your esteemed attention a matter of paramount importance concerning the economic vitality and continued progress of Telangana, particularly in the capital city, Hyderabad. The visionary issuance of [G.O. Ms. No. 04, LET&F Department, dated 04-04-2023], by the Telangana government, heralded a significant step towards fostering a thriving commercial ecosystem within the state. This esteemed order, which permits the operation of shops and establishments on a 24×7 basis, subject to certain stipulations, through the issuance of guidelines for granting exemption from Section 7 (Opening and Closing Hours) of the Telangana Shops and Establishments Act 1988.

It has come to my attention, however, that the aforementioned Government Order (G.O), has not been implemented effectively within the confines of Hyderabad. As a citizen deeply invested in the welfare and prosperity of our state, I strongly urge your esteemed office to undertake decisive actions to ensure the full and comprehensive realization of this impactful G.O. throughout Hyderabad. The efficacious implementation of this initiative has the potential to significantly bolster our city’s economic vibrancy and enhance the quality of life for its residents.

The adoption of a 24×7 operational model aligns with contemporary global trends and presents a plethora of advantages. It has the potential to significantly stimulate economic activity, generate new employment opportunities, and elevate Telangana’s overall competitiveness on the global stage. In today’s interconnected world, embracing such progressive concepts of 24/7 operation of businesses is imperative for attracting investments and remaining at the forefront of development.

Therefore, I respectfully request your intervention in ensuring that the necessary measures are taken to facilitate the smooth implementation of the G.O. allowing 24×7 operation of shops and establishments in Telangana. I am confident that this proactive step will not only contribute to the economic growth of our state but also enhance the quality of life for its residents. To achieve this objective, I propose the following measures for your esteemed consideration:

• According to the Telangana Shops & Establishments Act, 1988, a simple and transparent licensing policy should be implemented, Hyderabad city should be divided into zones, and 24×7 opening and closing hours should be implemented.

• Establish a special committee for a speedy resolution of labour department issues, including weekly working hours for employees, overtime wages, and matters under the Telangana Shops & Establishments Act, 1988.

• As per the Telangana Shops & Establishments Act, 1988, an annual fee of ₹10,000 should be considered for stores that have at least 10 or more employees to operate 24×7, and ₹5,000 if there are less than 10 employees.

• The police-public relationship needs to be redrawn. Increasing accountability, setting up 

              suitable institutional mechanisms for effective monitoring, improving the working conditions of      

more police personnel, recruiting more female personnel, recruiting more police in Hyderabad City, and allocating additional funds for Hyderabad City will create a safe yet economically and culturally vibrant city.

• The Telangana government and the police should jointly take responsibility for the safety of women employees.

• A committee should be constituted with the Commissioner of Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation to take the lead in implementing the ’24×7′ nightlife plan.

• Public transport agencies should be made part of the 24×7 plan. Providing safe public transport around the clock is crucial. Telangana State Road Transport Corporation, Hyderabad Multi-Modal Transport System, and Hyderabad Metro Rail should coordinate and revive special night trains, metro, cab, and bus services during specific hours in zonal areas.

• Infrastructure should be improved to suit Hyderabad’s nightlife. The city should be prepared to handle emergencies, including fire, ambulances, and medical services. The government should pay special attention to existing disaster management centers and war rooms.

The successful implementation of a 24/7 operational model, alongside the proposed measures, presents a compelling opportunity to not only solidify Hyderabad’s economic competitiveness but also demonstrably improve the quality of life for its residents. It is believed that implementing 24/7 business operations in Hyderabad could achieve an additional 2% growth, amounting to $1.50 billion (122.22 billion INR), with the city’s GDP potentially increasing by $1.50 billion in the following year. Currently, Hyderabad’s GDP is estimated at around $74 billion. According to a comprehensive report by Knight Frank India and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Hyderabad’s GDP is expected to reach approximately $201.4 billion by 2035. Moreover, 24/7 operations in Hyderabad could further increase the annual growth rate, potentially reaching a GDP of $215 billion by 2035.

I am resolute in my conviction that, under your esteemed leadership, Telangana can successfully capitalize on this immense potential and usher in a new era of progress and prosperity. I extend my sincere gratitude for considering my aforementioned suggestions. With eager anticipation, I await your prompt action in steering Hyderabad towards a future of remarkable progress and unparalleled prosperity.

With profound respect,

Raghavendar Askani,

Co-founder and Director of Swatantrata Center,

Founder of the Youth Parliament Program.

Copy To:

• Smt. A. Santhi Kumari, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Telangana

• Sri Ravi Gupta, IPS, Director-General & Inspector General of Police, Telangana 

• Sri Kothakota Sreenivasa Reddy, IPS, Commissioner of Police, Hyderabad

• Smt. Amrapali Kata, IAS, Commissioner, Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation

• Gadwal Vijayalakshmi, Mayor, Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation

• Sri S. Krishna Aditya, IAS, Director, Commissioner of Labour, Telangana