HYDRA has demolished 262 illegal constructions and reclaimed 111.72 acres of land.
On August 24, HYDRA launched a significant operation resulting in the demolition of actor Akkineni Nagarjuna’s N Convention center. The action was part of a larger crackdown on illegal constructions, with HYDRA targeting properties built on encroached land. The N Convention center, a well-known venue in Hyderabad, was among 262 illegal constructions demolished in the operation. HYDRA’s efforts aim to reclaim public lands and restore legal ownership. The operation, which reclaimed a total of 111.72 acres of land, underscores the city’s commitment to enforcing regulations and addressing unauthorized developments across the region.
HYDRA’s Operations in Hyderabad: Demolitions, Reclamation, and New Regulations
Hyderabad’s newly established Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Monitoring and Protection (HYDRA) has been actively engaged in a major crackdown on illegal constructions within the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) limits. Since its inception, HYDRA has undertaken a rigorous campaign to reclaim public land and enforce zoning regulations, leading to significant developments in urban management and environmental protection.
Significant Demolitions and Land Reclamation
As of September 11, 2024, HYDRA has demolished illegal structures across 26 locations, successfully reclaiming 111.72 acres of land. HYDRA Commissioner AV Ranganath presented a detailed report to the Telangana State government, highlighting the extent of their operations. According to the report, a total of 262 structures have been demolished by HYDRA since the organization’s formation.
One of the largest demolition efforts reported involved 42 unauthorized structures near Sunnam Cheruvu in Madhapur. This was the highest number of demolitions at a single location. Other notable demolitions included 24 structures near Pedda Cheruvu in Ameenpur, 14 structures near Appa Cheruvu in Gaganpahad, and 13 structures near Kathwa Lake in Dungidal municipality. Additionally, three structures were removed in Manemma Galli, Ramnagar cross roads in Musheerabad constituency.
Among the significant demolitions was the removal of the N Convention center, owned by film actor Akkineni Nagarjuna, which took place on August 24 at Tummidikunta Lake, Madhapur. This particular operation involved reclaiming 4.9 acres of land. The N Convention center, a notable venue in Hyderabad, was among the high-profile properties targeted in HYDRA’s ongoing efforts to address unauthorized land use.
The first major raid by HYDRA occurred on June 27 at plot This initial operation set the stage for subsequent demolitions, which have included properties owned by political figures, businessmen, and various high-profile individuals. The comprehensive approach reflects HYDRA’s commitment to enforcing regulations across all sectors of the community.
Chief Minister’s Call for Compliance
In light of the ongoing demolitions, the Chief Minister of Telangana has urged residents who have encroached upon land within the Full Tank Level (FTL) or buffer zones of lakes to voluntarily vacate these areas. The Chief Minister emphasized that HYDRA will continue to carry out demolitions of encroachments in these sensitive zones, underscoring the importance of maintaining environmental and zoning regulations.
HYDRA has also reassured the public that occupied houses will not be demolished as part of its current demolition drives. This assurance is aimed at addressing concerns among residents and ensuring that the operations focus primarily on unauthorized and encroaching structures.
Future Regulations and Mandatory NOCs
Looking ahead, the government is planning to enhance HYDRA’s powers with new regulations that will require builders to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for construction projects near lakes, canals, and other water bodies in and around Hyderabad. This measure is part of a broader strategy to enforce stricter compliance with environmental and zoning regulations, particularly in flood-prone areas.
Under the new rules, any construction near water bodies will need to be approved by HYDRA, ensuring that it adheres to environmental protection standards and zoning laws. The implementation of these regulations aims to prevent further encroachments and safeguard buffer zones from the impact of rapid urban growth.
Further details regarding the extent of buffer zones and the specific areas affected by the new regulations are expected to be released by the government soon. Builders and developers are advised to consult with HYDRA before commencing new projects to avoid legal issues and ensure adherence to the updated regulatory framework.
Conclusion
HYDRA’s aggressive approach to demolishing illegal constructions and reclaiming public land represents a crucial step in managing Hyderabad’s urban growth and protecting its environmental resources. The organization’s efforts to date, coupled with the forthcoming regulatory changes, reflect a concerted effort by the Telangana State government to address unauthorized land use and enforce zoning regulations. As HYDRA continues its operations and the new regulations come into effect, both residents and developers will need to navigate these changes carefully to ensure compliance and contribute to the city’s sustainable development.