Encroachers target graveyards, parks in Hyderabad; 32 complaints filed with HYDRAA
Representatives of the MB Church and MB Cemetery Management Committee alleged that century-old church burial land in Survey No. 619 at Shamshabad is under encroachment threat
By Sistla Dakshina Murthy
Representational Image
Hyderabad: Serious allegations of encroachments on burial grounds came to the fore during Monday’s HYDRAA Prajavani, with complainants expressing anguish that even cemeteries, considered sacred spaces, are being illegally occupied and built upon.
Century-old church burial land under threat
In a key complaint, representatives of the MB Church and the MB Cemetery Management Committee alleged that century-old church burial land in Survey No. 619 at Shamshabad is under encroachment threat.
The representatives also stated that the land is listed under prohibited properties. However, certain individuals allegedly manipulated land records by showing it as part of Survey No. 618 and secured illegal registrations.
Fencing and construction activities are reportedly underway at the site. The complainants urged authorities to immediately intervene and safeguard the cemetery land.
32 complaints received
The issue was among 32 complaints received by HYDRAA during the Prajavani programme. Additional Director Varla Papayya reviewed the petitions and directed officials concerned to take necessary action.
A total of 32 grievances were submitted by citizens, highlighting encroachments on parks, government lands and water bodies, along with demands for lake restoration and flood prevention measures.
Park land under encroachment threat
Residents of Central Park Phase-1 Colony in Serilingampally alleged attempts to encroach upon Park No. 4 land. They stated that individuals claiming ownership of adjacent land demolished a 20-year-old boundary wall and attempted to enter the park area.
With part of the compound wall damaged, the parkland remains vulnerable. The residents appealed for immediate protection and restoration of the boundary.
Government land in Rajendranagar
In another complaint, residents of TNGOs Colony in Rajendranagar mandal, Ranga Reddy district, alleged encroachment of nearly 300 square yards of vacant government land in the Plot No. 311 area.
They claimed the land lies between officially allotted plots and belongs to the government. The complainants requested removal of encroachments and restoration of the land to government control.
Demand for lake restoration
Several representations were also made seeking restoration and development of lakes to prevent flooding. Members of the Walkers’ Association from Yusufguda and Madhura Nagar requested expansion and rejuvenation of the existing lake at Krishnakant Park.
They alleged that much of the original lake had been filled up in the past and said restoring and expanding the remaining portion would help mitigate flood risks.
Residents also complained that poor maintenance has led to foul smells and stagnation. They urged authorities to divert sewage inflow, remove water hyacinth and take up development works during the summer to enhance groundwater recharge and improve the urban environment.
