‘Our Dreams Are Slipping Away’ Urban Evictions Disrupt Children’s Education in Hyderabad
Hyderabad: A year after the demolition of homes along the Musi River in Shankarnagar, the impact of displacement is most visible among children. The Musi River Development Project, which led to the demolition of 160 houses on October 1, 2024, has uprooted families and created significant educational and social challenges for young residents.
In a ten-storey apartment block in Pilligudiselu, Saidabad, children like 13-year-old Afreen (name changed) now play in corridors and open spaces. While their dreams of becoming doctors, soldiers, and police officers remain, these aspirations are under threat due to the instability caused by relocation.
Most families were moved to government-built 2BHK flats in Saidabad, approximately three kilometres from their original homes, with promised compensation of ₹25,000 for shifting and ₹2 lakh in financial aid. However, some families report being relocated to 2BHK units as far as 20 kilometres away, making access to schools and community support difficult.
Education Disrupted The move has disrupted school routines, transportation, and peer networks. Many children struggle to adapt to new schools, longer commutes, and the lack of familiar social support. Parents say that the stress of relocation and financial strain is affecting children’s concentration and participation in education.
Long-Term Impact Experts warn that prolonged displacement can have lasting consequences on children’s learning outcomes, mental health, and aspirations. “When homes are demolished and communities scattered, it’s the children who bear the brunt. Dreams of higher education and professional careers become increasingly difficult to achieve,” says an education analyst familiar with the Musi River resettlement.
Families have urged authorities to ensure better access to schools, transport facilities, and counseling support to mitigate the impact on children. The Shankarnagar relocation underscores the broader challenges urban development projects pose to vulnerable populations, especially in terms of safeguarding education and well-being.
