Encroachment of public spaces: Patancheru locals claim park land taken over for temple

Hyderabad: Residents of APR Praveen Luxury Layout in Patancheru have alleged that land originally earmarked for a park is being turned into a temple overnight.

The premium layout, spread across nearly 39 acres and housing about 500 villas, has witnessed tension as complainants claim they were threatened when they opposed the illegal construction.

This was one of 36 complaints tabled on Monday at the HYDRAA Prajavani, where citizens voiced concerns over the rampant encroachment of public spaces.

Public spaces under siege

Ordinary citizens are increasingly refusing to remain silent when parks, roads and lakes meant for community use are occupied. Monday’s session saw repeated references to blocked roads, unauthorised structures on drains, and land grabs under high-tension electricity lines.

Google and satellite maps are used to compare changes in land

HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath personally examined each grievance in the presence of the petitioners. Using Google and satellite maps, he compared past and present site conditions and directed officials to take corrective measures immediately.

Lakes and parkland at risk

Quthbullapur Mandal: Residents of Gajularamaram Welfare Association reported large-scale encroachment around Chinna Bandham Lake, claiming wastewater was being drained and groundwater would suffer in summer. They sought official demarcation and fencing.

Bandlaguda Village, Rajendranagar: A half-acre park in the P&T Colony is reportedly under occupation.

Gandhanguda Village, Gandipet Mandal: Nearly 3.28 acres of government land under Bandlaguda Jagir Municipality is said to be facing illegal grabs.

Mach Bollaram, Medchal–Malkajgiri: Residents complained the Mutukula Kunta lake, officially 4.62 acres, has swelled to 12 acres due to blocked inlets and raised bunds, leaving approved housing layouts submerged.

HYDRAA chief assures survey and action

Citizens stressed that unchecked encroachment is jeopardising community infrastructure, drainage and environmental balance. Commissioner Ranganath assured petitioners that field officers will verify sites, initiate removal of illegal structures and protect public land.