HYDRAA salaries will not be cut, clarifies commissioner Ranganath

Hyderabad: Tension gripped the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) office at Budha Bhavan on Monday as 93 marshals staged a protest against a recent government order cutting their monthly salaries.

The marshals, predominantly retired army personnel, threatened to resign if the salary reduction was not reversed.

Government Order triggers salary reduction protest

The Municipal Administration & Urban Development (MA&UD) department’s order (dated August 5) reduced marshals’ monthly pay from Rs 27,000 to Rs 22,750.

The marshals, entrusted with protecting water bodies, demolishing encroachments, and managing protest sites, expressed strong opposition to the pay cut and presented a signed representation demanding its withdrawal.

Commissioner engages marshals, promises amicable solution

HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath held a one-hour meeting with the protesting marshals to address their concerns.

He assured that the issue would be resolved amicably after discussions with senior officials in the MA&UD department.

Plans were announced to study salary structures for similar personnel in Maharashtra and Bengaluru to inform future decisions.

No pay cuts, possible salary hikes on the horizon

Speaking to the media, Commissioner Ranganath categorically stated that there would be no reduction in marshals’ salaries and the existing pay structure will continue.

He also indicated that the government is exploring options for salary increments, recognizing the marshals’ tireless efforts during natural calamities.

Clarifying misunderstandings over Government Order

The commissioner explained that fears of salary cuts stemmed from a recent government order aimed at regularizing outsourcing employee salaries. He emphasized that the marshals continue to receive their current salaries without any deductions.

Operations continue without disruption

Contrary to media reports suggesting marshals had skipped duties and HYDRAA activities had halted, Commissioner Ranganath dismissed these claims, affirming uninterrupted service delivery across the agency.

Marshals issue ultimatum, seek timely resolution

Meanwhile, one of the supervisors of the marshals, stated that they have given HYDRAA a three-month ultimatum to resolve the salary issue, warning that further action would be considered if the matter remains unresolved. Despite the unrest, marshals remain committed to their disciplined service.