HYDRA Resumes Action, Demolishes Illegal 5-Storey Building in Madhapur

The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Environmental Monitoring & Protection Agency (HYDRA) demolished an unauthorised five-storey building at Ayyappa Society in Khanamet village, located within the Serilingampally zone. The demolition, carried out on Sunday, took place amid tight security. The illegally constructed building, which included a cellar, ground floor, and five storeys, was situated on a 684-square-yard plot along a 100-foot road in Madhapur. The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) had previously issued notices to the building's owners last year, highlighting the unlawful construction.

In preparation for the demolition, the police set up extensive security measures and cordoned off the area to prevent disruptions. The operation was conducted using hydraulic cranes, and the electricity supply to the building was cut off before the demolition began. Despite the building’s proximity to the main road, traffic flow was not affected, ensuring a smooth operation.

HYDRA stated that GHMC had issued a show-cause notice to the builder on February 14, 2024, followed by a speaking order on February 26, 2024. However, construction continued, prompting the High Court to intervene. On April 19, 2024, the court issued an order in response to a writ petition demanding enforcement. Acting on this directive, GHMC partially demolished the building on June 13, 2024. Nevertheless, the builder resumed construction, which led HYDRA to take further action.

On Saturday, HYDRA officials, including Commissioner AV Ranganath, inspected the site. The demolition followed complaints from local residents regarding the builder’s disregard for GHMC notices and High Court orders. Ranganath expressed concern over the builder’s continued construction despite the clear legal rulings, criticising the GHMC officials for allowing the work to proceed.

In other news, HYDRA has announced that it will hold a public grievance redressal program every Monday starting January 6, 2025. This initiative, similar to GHMC’s Prajavani, will provide residents with an opportunity to meet with HYDRA officials and voice concerns, particularly about encroachments on water bodies. The program will be held every Monday, from 11 am to 2 pm and 3 pm to 5:30 pm at Buddha Bhavan, Ranigunj. Residents can contact HYDRA at 040-29565758 or 29560596.