Kukatpally–Hitech City flyover drainage works: HYDRAA refutes allegations; says not involved in drilling holes

Hyderabad: Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has clarified that it had no involvement in recent drainage works at the Kukatpally–Hitech City flyover, where traffic police and GHMC officials drilled controlled holes in the parapet wall to drain rainwater and ease congestion.

Structural engineers have confirmed that the flyover’s structure remains safe. Officials described attempts to link the incident to HYDRAA as part of a recurring pattern of misinformation.

HYDRAA refutes social media allegations

In a statement, HYDRAA dismissed allegations being circulated on social media, calling them “misleading, baseless, and part of a deliberate smear campaign.”

Officials said vested interests are falsely linking unrelated incidents to the department despite its ongoing work to improve urban living standards and promote eco-friendly development.

Lake restoration to prevent flooding

As part of its urban environmental initiatives, HYDRAA is restoring six major lakes, including Thammidikunta in Madhapur and Bathukamma Kunta in Amberpet.

The Amberpet project has transformed the area into a pleasant public space, earning praise from visiting central teams. In Thammidikunta, where flooding was once common, silt removal and stormwater drain diversion have ensured smooth water flow.

Officials stressed that all works are within the 29.26-acre Full Tank Level (FTL) boundary, as finalised by HMDA in 2016. Even the N Convention, they noted, was built within these limits.

Land ownership dispute explained

Actor Akkineni Nagarjuna voluntarily surrendered land for Thammidikunta’s development and applied for legal compensation.

Of the lake’s FTL area, 6.12 acres is assigned land belonging to the government, which cannot be sold. However, portions were purchased by private individuals, including 1.07 acres bought by a Jubilee Hills resident.

The ownership dispute is currently in court, and HYDRA has pledged to abide by any ruling. Officials condemned media reports suggesting the department is ignoring court orders, reiterating their commitment to legal compliance and judicial respect.

No change in vehicle colors

Responding to social media claims about “unusual” vehicle colors, HYDRAA clarified that the colors are the same as those used when the department operated under GHMC’s Enforcement, Vigilance & Disaster Management (EVDM) wing. Only the name and logo have changed over the past seven years.

Pattern of misinformation

Officials alleged that such false claims, whether about flyover works, lake boundaries, or vehicle colors, are part of a sustained attempt to discredit the department. They cited multiple past incidents where HYDRAA was wrongly linked to unrelated activities.

Appeal to citizens

HYDRAA urged the public to verify facts before believing or sharing information online. The department reaffirmed that it will continue its work on sustainable urban development and environmental protection, undeterred by baseless allegations.