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Illegal Constructions demolition Gandipet Lake
Demolition of Illegal Constructions Near Gandipet Lake
HYDRA’s Crackdown on Illegal Constructions
On Sunday, August 18, the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Monitoring and Protection (HYDRA) launched a decisive demolition drive aimed at illegal constructions around Gandipet Lake, also known as Osman Sagar. This action is part of a broader effort to protect the lake’s Full Tank Level (FTL) and buffer zone, which have been compromised by unauthorized developments. Two illegal buildings were razed during the operation, and a few locals who protested the demolition were arrested. The operation underscores HYDRA’s commitment to enforcing land-use regulations and safeguarding public spaces from unlawful encroachments.
Non-Compliant Structures Targeted
The buildings targeted in the demolition drive, including residential apartments, were found to be non-compliant with existing land-use norms. These structures were constructed without obtaining the necessary No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the relevant authorities. The encroachment into the buffer zones and FTL areas of Gandipet Lake not only violates legal regulations but also poses a threat to the lake’s ecosystem. The removal of these illegal constructions is seen as a crucial step in preventing further environmental degradation and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the lake.
HYDRA’s Stance Against Encroachment
HYDRA has taken a firm stance against the rampant encroachment activities in Hyderabad, particularly around water bodies. On August 12, HYDRA Commissioner AV Ranganath emphasized the agency’s resolve to tackle this issue head-on. He revealed that a significant number of properties in the encroached areas are owned by influential individuals, including politicians and land grabbers. Ranganath assured that HYDRA is committed to holding those responsible for these illegal activities accountable.
“We have a list of encroachers and those who are disposing of waste in the dried lakes in various parts of Hyderabad. The encroachment is happening at a large scale but we are targeting those responsible for enabling it,” stated Ranganath. He also highlighted that HYDRA has been allocated a budget of Rs 200 crore to take strict action against encroachments and to restore the integrity of Hyderabad’s water bodies.
Government’s Stance on Real Estate and Water Bodies
The Telangana government is actively promoting real estate development across the state. However, HYDRA has made it clear that this development must not come at the expense of Hyderabad’s natural resources. The construction of residential buildings around water bodies or on encroached land is strictly prohibited. The government has mandated that all constructions must occur in designated areas, ensuring that public and government lands, particularly around water bodies, are protected.
HYDRA Commissioner Ranganath mentioned that while the agency has not yet addressed encroachments around Hussain Sagar Lake, the issue is on their radar. Complaints regarding unauthorized developments around the lake have been received, and HYDRA plans to address these concerns in the near future.
GHMC’s Initiative to Rejuvenate Hyderabad’s Lakes
In parallel with HYDRA’s demolition efforts, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has embarked on an ambitious project to rejuvenate 47 lakes across Hyderabad. This initiative aims to protect, conserve, and beautify these vital water bodies, which have suffered from years of neglect and encroachment.
The GHMC has categorized the lakes into three packages for targeted rejuvenation efforts. Package 1, with a budget of Rs 61.40 crore, will cover seven lakes in the Khairatabad zone. Package 2, costing Rs 45.88 crore, will address 26 lakes in the Kukatpally and Serilingampally zones. Package 3, with Rs 54.07 crore allocated, will focus on 14 lakes in the LB Nagar, Secunderabad, and Charminar zones. These efforts will enhance the ecological balance, increase water retention, and improve the aesthetic appeal of the lakes, making them valuable assets to the city’s landscape.
Disclaimer: The content provided is based on recent reports and official statements regarding the demolition of illegal constructions near Gandipet Lake. It is intended for informational purposes and should not be construed as legal or professional advice.
