HYDRA demolishes illegal constructions

HYDRA’s Major Demolition Drive in Hyderabad

The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Monitoring and Protection (HYDRA) has been actively working to demolish illegal constructions and reclaim encroached land within the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) limits. Since its inception, HYDRA demolishes illegal constructions across 26 locations, successfully reclaiming 111.72 acres of land. HYDRA’s extensive operations have targeted unauthorized structures that violate environmental and zoning laws, with significant demolitions involving high-profile figures and locations.

HYDRA demolishes illegal constructions
HYDRA demolishes illegal constructions

HYDRA’s Report on Demolitions

HYDRA Commissioner AV Ranganath submitted a comprehensive report to the Telangana State government on September 11, detailing the demolitions of 262 illegal structures since HYDRA’s formation. The report highlighted that the most extensive operation was near Sunnam Cheruvu in Madhapur, where HYDRA demolished 42 unauthorized constructions. Other major demolitions included 24 structures near Pedda Cheruvu in Ameenpur, 14 near Appa Cheruvu in Gaganpahad, 13 near Kathwa lake in Dungidal municipality, and three in Manemma Galli at Ramnagar crossroads in the Musheerabad constituency.

HYDRA demolishes illegal constructions
HYDRA demolishes illegal constructions

A notable demolition occurred on August 24, when HYDRA demolished N-Convention owned by actor Akkineni Nagarjuna in Tummidikunta Lake, Madhapur, reclaiming 4.9 acres of encroached land. This action was part of HYDRA’s broader mission to remove illegal constructions that threaten Hyderabad’s water bodies and buffer zones.

HYDRA demolishes illegal constructions
HYDRA demolishes illegal constructions

Encouraging Voluntary Compliance

The Telangana Chief Minister has urged individuals and entities that have encroached on Full Tank Level (FTL) or buffer zones of lakes to vacate voluntarily. The government has made it clear that HYDRA demolishes illegal constructions that encroach on these critical areas, emphasizing the importance of protecting Hyderabad’s water bodies and natural resources from unauthorized developments.

HYDRA has reassured the public that its demolition drives focus on illegal constructions and not on occupied residential homes. This clarification aims to alleviate public concern while maintaining a firm stance against illegal encroachments in environmentally sensitive areas.

New Regulations and Increased Powers for HYDRA

In a move to strengthen HYDRA’s authority, the Telangana government is preparing to introduce new regulations that will require mandatory No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for any construction near lakes, canals, and other water bodies in and around Hyderabad. These regulations will provide HYDRA with more power to enforce compliance with environmental and zoning laws, particularly in flood-prone areas.

Under the upcoming rules, builders and developers will need to secure an NOC from HYDRA to ensure that their projects do not violate the new guidelines protecting water bodies and buffer zones. These measures are intended to curb the rampant illegal constructions that have contributed to environmental degradation and increased flood risks in Hyderabad.

Reports suggest that additional details about the extent of buffer zones and the specific areas affected by the new regulations will be released by the government soon. In the meantime, HYDRA advises builders and developers to consult with the agency before initiating any new projects to avoid legal complications and ensure adherence to the updated regulations.

Significant Impact on Urban Development

HYDRA’s proactive approach in demolishing illegal constructions and reclaiming land has had a significant impact on urban development within Hyderabad. By targeting encroachments in environmentally sensitive zones, HYDRA aims to protect the city’s natural resources and mitigate the risks associated with uncontrolled urban expansion.

The requirement for mandatory NOCs from HYDRA for constructions near water bodies reflects the government’s commitment to sustainable urban development. This policy shift is expected to play a crucial role in preserving Hyderabad’s ecological balance while accommodating its rapid growth.

Conclusion

HYDRA demolishes illegal constructions as part of its mission to safeguard Hyderabad’s water bodies and buffer zones, reclaiming over 111 acres of land within the GHMC limits. With the introduction of stricter regulations requiring NOCs for construction near sensitive areas, HYDRA’s role in enforcing environmental compliance is set to expand. These efforts are crucial in addressing the challenges of urban encroachment and ensuring sustainable development in Hyderabad. The public and developers are encouraged to adhere to the new guidelines to protect the city’s natural heritage and prevent further environmental degradation.

Disclaimer:
The information provided is for informational purposes only and reflects the latest updates on HYDRA’s activities and regulations in Hyderabad. For official guidelines and legal advice, please consult the relevant authorities.

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