Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Disaster and Response Asset Monitoring and Protection Agency (HYDRAA) will not interfere with residential properties that were built before the govt body was constituted in July 2024, said HYDRAA commissioner AV Ranganath on Tuesday. He, however, clarified that the exemption will not extend to commercial complexes built without proper approvals.
“We don’t want to create panic among residents, especially those who have been living in these properties for years. However, we will thoroughly scrutinize the documents of commercial properties. If they lack necessary sanctions, we will not hesitate to demolish them, regardless of how old those properties are,” Ranganath said during an inspection of Kamuni Cheruvu and Maisamma Cheruvu in Kukatpally and Moosapet respectively.
The inspection was taken up following complaints of encroachments, dumping of debris, and unregulated construction activities on the lakes and their feeder canals.
“Those responsible for such actions will not be spared,” the commissioner said, issuing a strict warning to Vasavi Group that is building a residential project close to the water bodies. “The company initiated projects without completing the flood canal linking Kamuni Cheruvu and Maisamma Cheruvu, which was designed to be 17 metres wide. The delay in work caused severe waterlogging in Safdar Nagar and Rajiv Gandhi Nagar slums during the monsoon season,” he added.
He directed the firm to complete the work before the next monsoon season.
“HYDRAA was formed to safeguard urban water bodies and prevent unauthorised developments…while properties with valid govt approvals will not be targeted, unauthorised structures erected after HYDRAA’s inception will face immediate demolition without exception,” Ranganath said.
During his inspection, the commissioner also lauded the efforts of local residents “for their commitment towards assisting authorities in protecting the lakes”. “It is encouraging to see citizens take on an active role in safeguarding these vital water bodies. We need more citizens to come forward to combat encroachments,” Ranganath said.
