HYDRA Confirms Focus on New Illegal Constructions, Existing Homes Safe
Hyderabad: AV Ranganath, the commissioner of Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Monitoring and Protection (HYDRA), has clarified that existing homes and habitations located in lake full tank levels (FTLs) and buffer zones in Hyderabad will not be demolished, ending days of confusion regarding the agency’s powers. His statement, made on Sunday, September 8, reassures residents that only new illegal constructions in these zones will face demolition.
In his address, Ranganath emphasized that ongoing demolition activities are targeting newly constructed or under-construction properties within FTLs and buffer zones. “We assure the people of Hyderabad that no occupied house will be demolished. However, we urge the public not to purchase any property—house, flat, or land—that falls within a lake’s FTL or buffer zone,” said the HYDRA commissioner.
Ranganath pointed to ongoing demolition work at Sunnam Cheruvu, where structures had previously been removed but resurfaced, necessitating a renewed operation on Sunday. He also cited a recent case involving seven villas under construction at Mallampeta Cheruvu in Dundigal, which were demolished as they were being built within the FTL without any construction permits.
“The builder, Vijay Lakshmi, locally known as the ‘Lady Don,’ has multiple criminal cases against her and connections with local political leaders,” Ranganath revealed. He further mentioned that criminal cases have been lodged against Vijay Lakshmi and former MLA Panyam Katasani Ram Bhoopal Reddy in local police stations.
Since HYDRA was established in July, the agency has conducted demolitions in multiple locations around Hyderabad, recovering at least 50 acres of encroached land. Ranganath reiterated that no residential property occupied by any person has been demolished, and the agency is focusing on illegal, unoccupied constructions.
For those purchasing properties, Ranganath advised conducting thorough checks regarding FTL and buffer zone regulations through the HMDA Lakes website or by consulting HYDRA directly to avoid buying properties in restricted areas.
Siasat reported.
