Hyderabad: The introduction of the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Protection Agency (HYDRAA) is creating apprehension among Layout Regularisation Scheme (LRS) applicants, leading to a significant slowdown in the processing of applications. The state government’s recent announcement to extend HYDRAA’s model to other districts has added to these concerns, with applicants fearing future repercussions even after their layouts are regularized.
Many applicants are hesitant to approach authorities for processing their LRS applications, fearing that, despite obtaining approvals, the government may still take action against them in the future. This concern is heightened by the fact that officers who have approved such applications could also be held accountable. These fears have resulted in delays in the processing of applications, as officials are becoming increasingly cautious in handling these cases.
Last week, HYDRAA recommended disciplinary action against six officers from municipal, irrigation, and other departments for granting permissions for various structures. This action has made officials more vigilant, causing further delays in LRS application processing, according to a representative of the Telangana Tahsildars Association.
Additionally, the government has warned that any errors in the approval process could result in officials being held responsible if it is later discovered that the reports were incorrect. This has further contributed to officials exercising extreme caution, potentially impacting the government’s target of generating Rs. 2,000 crore to Rs. 3,000 crore from LRS applications.
The LRS initiative was launched in 2020, receiving 25.70 lakh applications between August 31 and October 31. Among these, 3.58 lakh applications were filed within Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) limits and one lakh within the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) limits. Some applications were rejected due to urban land ceiling violations, while many others remain unprocessed.
Further delays were caused by officials being engaged in rescue and relief efforts during recent floods in several districts. Despite Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy’s directives to expedite the processing and complete it within three months, progress has been slow. Special teams from the revenue, municipal administration, and irrigation departments were formed to accelerate the process, and help desks were promised at district offices for applicants’ convenience. However, few such desks have been set up, and inquiries from applicants about their application’s status remain sparse.
