Raidurg drug bust at co-living space triggers Cyberabad police crackdown; 1,000 more hostels to be audited

Hyderabad: In the wake of recent drug seizures at a co-living hostel in Raidurg, the Cyberabad Police have launched intensive, immediate audits of hostels across their jurisdiction to strengthen monitoring, curb illegal activities and enforce regulatory compliance.

Drug bust triggers crackdown

Acting on a tip-off, the Special Operations Team (SOT) recently raided a hostel in Anjaiah Nagar and busted a narcotics supply network. Two alleged suppliers from Andhra Pradesh and three consumers from Hyderabad were arrested.

Police seized MDMA, OG Kush (cannabis) and mobile phones during the operation, prompting a wider review of safety and oversight in co-living spaces.

Focus on safety and accountability

Cyberabad Commissioner of Police Avinash Mohanty said the intensified inspections are aimed at curbing illegal activities, tightening safety mechanisms and holding hostel managements accountable for lapses.

He said the police, in coordination with the Society for Cyberabad Security Council, have launched a dedicated safety initiative titled Project Safe Stay to improve monitoring and compliance across hostel accommodations.

Madhapur, Balanagar house most hostels

According to the Commissioner, the Madhapur and Balanagar zones account for the largest concentration of hostels within Cyberabad limits.

Police have so far enumerated nearly 4,000 hostels, accommodating close to two lakh residents—both men and women—primarily staying for employment and education.

Gaps in security and fire safety in hostels

Mohanty said a majority of hostels lack adequate security arrangements and fire safety infrastructure.

About six months ago, police held a meeting with hostel operators, advising them to install proper fire safety equipment and strengthen security measures.

“With SCSC’s support, nearly 1,000 hostels were audited for CCTV coverage, deployment of security guards and fire safety systems. The findings were shared with SCSC member companies to help employees make informed choices while selecting accommodation,” he said, expressing hope that management would proactively comply with norms.

Multi-agency enforcement planned

The Commissioner said hostel audits will involve multiple agencies. While municipal authorities issue building occupancy certificates, the police are coordinating with concerned departments to act against unauthorised buildings proliferating in hostel zones.

“Enforcement cannot be handled by the police alone. Security-related compliance will be pursued jointly,” he said.

Next phase of audits underway

The next phase, covering another 1,000 hostels, is expected to be completed within two to three months. Fire No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) and building occupancy certificates have been made mandatory and formally communicated to hostel managements.

Mohanty said the initiative is expected to yield positive results, with hostels that meet safety and regulatory standards likely to be preferred by residents.

What is ‘Project Safe Stay’ framework?

Under Project Safe Stay, authorities aim to enhance safety, prevent illegal activities and ensure adherence to regulations in co-living establishments through coordinated action involving police, hostel operators and community stakeholders.

Officials said further details on enforcement, awareness programmes and compliance checks will be rolled out in phases.