Save Hyderabad lakes: HYDRAA launches helpline to encourage people to report encroachments

Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has launched a direct public outreach initiative to conserve vital water bodies and enhance urban flood resilience.

Citizens can now report encroachments directly to the HYDRAA Commissioner, AV Ranganath, by calling 7207923085.

This direct line is part of HYDRAA’s broader city-wide lake restoration programme aimed at protecting vital water bodies and improving urban flood resilience.

Six lakes being restored under Phase I

HYDRAA is currently undertaking the restoration of six key chain lakes in the first phase. These interconnected lakes play a significant role in stormwater management by helping channel rainwater safely away from roads and residential areas during monsoon downpours.

Officials have stressed the ecological importance of these water bodies, noting that the chain lake system forms the backbone of the city’s flood prevention strategy.

Encroachments pose a flood risk

HYDRAA has warned that encroachments, whether through illegal construction, dumping of debris, or narrowing of canals, are a major threat to Hyderabad’s flood defences.

Such activities block natural drainage paths, increasing the risk of severe waterlogging and flooding in low-lying areas.

The agency emphasized that without immediate corrective action, large parts of the city could face repeated flood events during heavy rainfall.

WhatsApp helpline and social media channels opened

To make it easier for citizens to contribute, HYDRAA has launched a dedicated WhatsApp helpline (8712406899). Citizens are encouraged to send photos, location details, and short descriptions of any suspected encroachments.

Information can also be shared via HYDRAA’s verified social media handles: Twitter (X), Instagram, and Facebook: @CommissionerHydraa. These multiple channels aim to ensure that information reaches officials quickly and can be acted upon without delay.

Commissioner’s call for public participation

Speaking about the initiative, HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath said, “Hyderabad belongs to all of us. Protecting our lakes is not just the government’s job; it's a shared responsibility. We’re ready to act swiftly, but we need your eyes and ears on the ground.”

He called on residents across the city to become active participants in safeguarding water bodies, which serve both environmental and public safety functions.

Campaign aims at long-term flood resilience

The public reporting drive is part of a larger strategy to build long-term flood resilience across Hyderabad through community involvement and swift enforcement. HYDRAA plans to expand restoration efforts and improve monitoring with support from vigilant citizens.

Officials say that timely alerts from the public can significantly improve response times and allow authorities to prevent further encroachment damage.