Who is giving permission to blast rocks within city: HC pulls up T govt

Hyderabad: Telangana High Court has sought a status report from the state government and the Mines and Geology Department on the use of explosives by construction companies for blasting hillocks in and around Hyderabad.

Court questions legality of blasting

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Aparesh Kumar Singh and Justice G.M. Mohiuddin raised concerns over the rampant use of “huge explosives” by builders, often carried out day and night, without any regulatory framework or Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).

The Bench was hearing a suo motu PIL taken up following reports of continuous blasting of hillocks near Nyay Vihar in Jubilee Hills, close to the Telangana Judges’ Quarters. Residents, including judges of the High Court, had reportedly felt tremors caused by the unregulated blasting.

‘Who Grants Permission?’ asks Bench

During the hearing, Chief Justice Singh directed Additional Advocate General Md. Imran Khan to clarify which authority grants permission to construction companies to purchase and use explosives. The court also sought details on whether the explosives are sourced from licensed firms and whether any SOP exists for their handling.

CP Hyderabad identified as Authority

Observing the legal position, Chief Justice Singh noted that under the Hyderabad City Police Act, the Commissioner of Police is the competent authority to grant permission for blasting in the city. However, he pointed out a “grey area” since construction activities are widespread across adjoining districts as well, where no clear guidelines are in place.

Status Report by September 16

The High Court directed the State Government and the Mines Department to file a counter affidavit and a comprehensive status report on licensing, regulatory mechanisms, and safety protocols.

The matter has been posted for further hearing on September 16, 2025.