Public spaces in layouts to stay intact, no unauthorized changes: HYDRAA boss Ranganath

Hyderabad: In a significant move to regulate land use and protect public utility spaces, the HYDRAA on Saturday emphasized that it is the government's responsibility to safeguard parks, roads, and spaces earmarked for public use within all approved layouts—irrespective of the sanctioning authority.

At a high-level meeting chaired by HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath, officials from GHMC, HMDA, DTCP, Revenue, Irrigation, and other departments participated in a detailed discussion on layout regularization, unauthorized constructions, and the status of public utility spaces in plotted developments.

Revisions only with plot owners’ consent

Officials clarified that if 10 percent of the plots in a layout are registered, the layout must be officially identified and recognized. Any revisions to the layout, including changes to land use or alignment, must be done only with the consent of existing plot owners. It was also reaffirmed that at least 10 percent of layout space must be allocated to parks and public amenities.

The government retains rights over land designated for roads and public spaces, even if layouts are approved by gram panchayats, municipalities, DTCP, or HMDA.

Old panchayat layouts must be entered in revenue records

The conference noted the lack of revenue record updates for many old layouts approved decades ago by gram panchayats. This has led to encroachments under the guise of agricultural activity.

Officials stressed that such layouts should be formally entered into revenue records. In cases where some plots have been regularized, the layout should be deemed recognized, and such land cannot be reconverted into agricultural land without due process and consent from the plot buyers.

Layout structure cannot be altered post final approval

The meeting reiterated that preliminary approvals can facilitate plot sales, but the final layout structure must remain intact. Supreme Court guidelines were cited, emphasizing that no changes are permitted once a layout receives final approval.

Illegal constructions in buffer zones to face demolition

The meeting also addressed the issue of unauthorized constructions. Any building that violates the approved layout plan is subject to legal action, and even demolition, as per High Court and Supreme Court judgments. This includes structures built within lake buffer zones, roads, and parks—where demolitions can be carried out without prior notice.

Officials also noted that if regularized plots fall within Full Tank Level (FTL) boundaries of lakes, the government has the authority to cancel such allotments.

HYDRAA assures stronger plot protection and real estate stability

HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath briefed the gathering on recent challenges faced during anti-encroachment drives. He emphasized that the authority’s proactive stance is restoring public confidence in property safety and promoting a more stable and transparent real estate market.