HYDRAA Launches Major Crackdown on Encroachments Across Hyderabad
In a significant move to reclaim public spaces, the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) executed extensive operations across multiple areas of the city on Tuesday. The agency targeted illegal encroachments on a lake, park land, roads, and a stormwater drain, aiming to restore these vital assets for community use and environmental protection.
Lake Restoration in Manchirevula, Gandipet
At the Nagireddy Kunta lake in Manchirevula, Gandipet, HYDRAA officials cleared encroachments on an 8.24-acre water body. According to AV Ranganath, HYDRAA commissioner, revenue and Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) records confirmed the lake's status, yet private entities had partially occupied it. A real estate firm had erected a 20-foot-high tin-sheet wall around four acres, while another encroached on approximately three acres. Additionally, a former public representative occupied over an acre and sold it illegally. The operation involved demolishing temporary structures and compound walls, followed by fencing the lake area to prevent future violations.
Road Clearance in Medchal-Malkajgiri District
In the Bowrampet area of Medchal-Malkajgiri district, HYDRAA removed encroachments along the 150-foot-wide Gandimaisamma-Miyapur road. Around 10 temporary sheds, including scrap shops, had been constructed along the roadside and were being rented out, obstructing traffic flow. After issuing prior notices, the agency dismantled these structures, significantly easing traffic movement and enhancing road safety for residents.
Park Land Reclaimed in Avushapur, Ghatkesar Mandal
In Avushapur, Ghatkesar mandal, HYDRAA intervened to protect 1,440 square yards of land originally earmarked for a park in a 1987 layout. The land had been illegally converted into six plots and put up for sale. Following public complaints, officials halted the sale, fenced the area, and officially marked it as park space, ensuring it remains available for recreational use as intended.
Stormwater Drain Restoration in Jubilee Hills
In a separate case in Jubilee Hills, a stormwater drain was encroached upon and converted into residential plots. Commissioner Ranganath reported that two plots measuring 120 and 180 square yards were created and registered, despite the presence of box drains carrying water from Madhapur metro station and Peddamma temple. After a complaint, HYDRAA, in collaboration with the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and other departments, conducted an inspection. They removed temporary structures, including tin-sheet enclosures and watchman rooms, clearing about 300 square yards of land and restoring the drain to its original function.
Officials emphasized that all actions were based on thorough complaints and field verification, underscoring HYDRAA's commitment to enforcing urban regulations and safeguarding public assets in Hyderabad.
