HYDRAA cracks down on encroachments in Indira Park, orders restoration of skating rink area

Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRA) has stepped in to curb alleged encroachments inside Indira Park at Lower Tank Bund, acting on complaints from morning walkers.

HYDRAA stops construction on old skating rink

HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath conducted a field inspection on Monday and ordered the immediate halting of unauthorised construction works at the site of an old skating rink.

Authorities found that construction materials had been dumped and a section of the park’s internal boundary wall was demolished without permission to facilitate access for heavy machinery.

Taking serious note, the Commissioner directed officials to restore the boundary wall and ensure that no further illegal activity takes place.

He also suggested that, with a new skating rink already operational, the old rink area should be integrated into the park for public use.

Encroachment attempt flagged by walkers

The issue came to light through complaints filed on the Prajavani platform by regular park visitors. According to them, the old skating rink, lying unused after a new facility was opened, became a target for encroachment.

A person identified as Safee reportedly began using the space under the pretext of conducting a summer karate camp.

However, even after the summer season, the area continued to be used as a training centre, with fees allegedly being collected from children.

Expansion plans without approvals

The individual is also said to have approached the local MLA seeking Rs 30 lakh in funds for developing the site.

While the proposal was forwarded to the District Collector, officials clarified that funds would only be sanctioned after obtaining necessary approvals from the concerned departments.

However, ignoring the approval process, construction activity was allegedly initiated by engaging a contractor, Ravinder Reddy.

Steel rods and other building materials were brought in, and part of the boundary wall was removed to allow entry of a JCB machine.

Police case registered against contractor

Despite the activity taking place near the GHMC office responsible for park maintenance, it went unchecked until walkers escalated the matter to HYDRAA.

Following the inspection, HYDRAA officials coordinated with the GHMC Sports Wing Assistant Director, prompting swift action.

A case has now been registered against contractor Ravinder Reddy at Domalguda Police Station for demolishing the park’s boundary wall and carrying out unauthorised works.

Orders to protect public spaces

Reaffirming the need to safeguard public spaces, the HYDRAA Commissioner directed officials to ensure that the old skating rink area is merged back into Indira Park and preserved for public use, preventing any future encroachments.