HYDRAA reclaims 1,000 acres of govt land from encroachers; sets target of 2,000 acres worth ₹1L Cr

Hyderabad: Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) warned influential people for using the poor to cover illegal encroachments.

The agency clarified that it has no intention of demolishing houses belonging to the poor. However, those exploiting the poor for nefarious activities will not be spared.

HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath said that the agency will continue its aggressive drive to protect lakes and water bodies across the city.

“So far, HYDRAA has reclaimed over 1,000 acres of government land from encroachments. The target for this year is to clear nearly 2,000 acres and protect public assets worth approximately Rs 1 lakh crore,” he said.

Addressing a gathering of former Singareni employees at the Haritha Chaitanya Kalakshetram in Red Hills, Hyderabad, Ranganath said HYDRAA’s mission goes beyond removing encroachments and focuses on restoring lakes into healthy, vibrant public spaces.

Lakes to become public health and recreation zones

The HYDRAA Commissioner said lakes will be developed as spaces that promote physical and mental well-being for children, youth, and senior citizens. Walking tracks, play areas, and sports facilities are being created around restored lakes to encourage community use.

“Environmental protection and removal of illegal encroachments will remain a top priority for HYDRAA,” he said, adding that the agency will continue to act firmly wherever violations are found.

Focus on restoration, not just evictions

Ranganath explained that HYDRAA is also working to clean up toxic and polluted lakes, prevent the growth of invasive weeds such as water hyacinth, and ensure clean water retention.

Several lakes have already been restored on these lines, and work on more water bodies will be taken up soon, he said.

No targeting of the poor, warns against powerful encroachers

Reiterating HYDRAA’s stand, the Commissioner said poor households will not be targeted. However, he cautioned that influential individuals who illegally occupy lake lands in the name of the poor will face strict action without exception.

He also appreciated former Singareni employees for contributing to environmental awareness through initiatives under the Haritha Chaitanya Kalakshetram banner.

Experts call for collective responsibility on environment

Speaking at the same event, Central Ministry of Environment and Forests advisor and senior scientist Tarun Kathul said permissions for industries and mining are being denied if they pose a threat to the environment. He urged citizens to recognise the seriousness of climate pollution and take collective responsibility to reduce environmental damage.

State Pollution Control Board senior social scientist Shravan Kumar said environmental harm begins from birth and continues through daily human activity. He called for a change in mindset and appealed to senior citizens to guide future generations toward sustainable living, including eliminating plastic usage.

Cultural programme highlights environmental awareness

Former Singareni directors J.V. Dattatreya, A. Manohar, S. Chandrashekhar, and G.V. Reddy also addressed the gathering. Haritha Chaitanya Kalakshetram, founder and president Ganasankar Pujari explained that the organisation promotes environmental awareness through cultural programmes and music.