Illegal Building Constructed in lake demolish

Telangana: Illegal Building Constructed in Lake Blown Up in Sangareddy

A Bold Move Against Illegal Constructions

In a decisive effort to protect water bodies in Telangana, authorities in Sangareddy district took a significant step by demolishing a multi-storeyed building illegally constructed in a lake. This operation, which involved the use of controlled explosives, underscores the government’s commitment to reclaiming encroached lands and safeguarding natural resources. The incident occurred on Thursday in Malkapur village, located approximately 60 km from Hyderabad.

The four-storeyed structure, built without any official permission, was situated within the lake’s boundaries in the Kondapur mandal. Villagers raised concerns about the illegal construction, prompting the revenue authorities to take action. The building not only violated regulations but also included a ramp and staircase leading directly into the lake, further exacerbating the encroachment issue.

Background of the Illegal Structure

The owner of the illegal building, a man from Hyderabad, constructed it about 12 years ago. Reports indicate that he and his family frequently spent weekends at this unauthorized property. Additionally, there were plans for a swimming pool, which would have further encroached upon the water body. The presence of such structures in and around lakes poses a severe risk to the environment, as they can disrupt the ecological balance and contribute to the degradation of water bodies.

Demolition Using Controlled Explosives

The demolition marked a historic moment as it was the first instance where officials utilized explosives for such an operation. Thasildar Anita stated that the decision to blow up the building was made because no vehicles could access the remote location for a conventional demolition. Prior to the operation, the owner was issued a notice regarding the demolition of the illegal structure.

The authorities employed strict security measures to ensure the safety of all personnel involved in the demolition. Despite these precautions, a home guard sustained minor injuries during the controlled explosion, highlighting the inherent risks involved in such operations.

Initiatives to Protect Water Bodies

This demolition is part of a broader initiative aimed at preserving Telangana’s water bodies. The newly established Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRA) has been actively involved in the demolition of unauthorized structures in and around Hyderabad over the past few months. Their efforts align with the government’s objective to reclaim encroached lands and restore natural habitats.

The drive against illegal constructions gained further urgency following recent floods in Khammam, Mahabubabad, Suraypet, and other districts. In response to these disasters, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy directed district collectors to identify and demolish buildings constructed within the Full Tank Level (FTL) and buffer zones of lakes. This proactive approach aims to mitigate potential flood risks and safeguard vulnerable communities.

The Importance of Reclaiming Water Bodies

The reclamation of lakes and other water bodies is crucial for maintaining ecological balance, preventing flooding, and ensuring the availability of water resources for future generations. Illegal constructions not only threaten these natural resources but also pose significant risks to public safety. By demolishing such structures, authorities send a clear message about the importance of adhering to regulations and protecting the environment.

Community Involvement in Reporting Violations

The successful demolition of the illegal building in Sangareddy can be attributed to the vigilance of the local community. Villagers played a crucial role in reporting the unauthorized construction, demonstrating the importance of community involvement in environmental conservation efforts. Such collaboration between authorities and residents is vital in addressing encroachment issues and preserving natural resources.

As the government continues its campaign against illegal constructions, it is imperative that communities remain engaged and vigilant in reporting violations. The collective effort can significantly contribute to safeguarding Telangana’s water bodies and promoting sustainable development.