HYDRAA clears encroachments in Ghatkesar and Gandipet, protects lake, parks, roads and drains

Hyderabad: In a series of coordinated operations across the city on Tuesday, the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) removed multiple encroachments, safeguarding key public assets including a lake, park land, roads and drainage channels.

8.24-acre Nagireddy lake saved from encroachers

HYDRAA prevented large-scale encroachment of the 8.24-acre Nagireddy Kunta at Manchirevula village in Gandipet mandal of Rangareddy district.

The lake, clearly recorded in revenue and HMDA records, was allegedly being swallowed by real estate interests. Encroachers had erected 20-foot-high tin sheet barricades around the lake, effectively concealing it, and fenced off nearly 4 acres.

Another construction group had encroached on around 3 acres, while a former local public representative had reportedly occupied over an acre and sold it off.

Plots were carved out, with temporary structures and boundary walls built using precast materials. Acting on complaints from locals, HYDRAA demolished all illegal constructions, restored the lake boundaries, installed fencing, and put up official boards to protect the water body.

Residents expressed relief, stating that any delay could have led to permanent constructions and loss of the lake.

Encroachments cleared on 150-ft road in Dundigal

In Medchal–Malkajgiri district’s Dundigal–Gandimaisamma mandal, HYDRAA removed illegal structures along the Gandimaisamma–Miyapur main road in Bowrampet village.

Following complaints, officials found that temporary sheds had been erected on both sides of the 150-foot-wide road and were being rented out as shops. These encroachments were causing severe traffic congestion.

After issuing prior notices to vacate, HYDRA demolished 10 such sheds, including scrap shops and other establishments, easing traffic flow. Locals welcomed the move and thanked authorities for reclaiming the road.

1,440 sq yards park land protected in Ghatkesar

In Avushapur village of Ghatkesar mandal, HYDRAA intervened to protect 1,440 square yards of land earmarked for a park in a 60-acre layout approved in 1987.

The designated park land had reportedly been converted into six plots and put up for sale. Acting on complaints received during the public grievance programme, HYDRAA halted the sales, fenced the land and installed signboards marking it as park space.

Encroachments on drainage channels cleared in Jubilee Hills

In a separate operation, HYDRAA cleared illegal constructions over stormwater drains in Jubilee Hills.

Taking advantage of high land demand in the area, encroachers had created and sold plots of 120 and 180 square yards over drainage channels. Registrations had also been completed.

Upon investigation with GHMC and other departments, HYDRAA found that box drains connected to flood channels from Madhapur Metro Station and Peddamma Temple had been obstructed. Temporary structures and watchman rooms built using tin sheets were demolished.

Around 300 square yards of land were reclaimed, and the drainage channels were restored, preventing potential urban flooding.

Public applause for swift action

Across locations, residents lauded HYDRAA’s swift response to complaints and its efforts in protecting vital urban infrastructure. Officials reiterated that strict action would continue against encroachments threatening public spaces and environmental assets.