Hyderabad authorities crack down on illegal constructions in lake buffer zones

The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) launched a demolition drive targeting illegal structures built on the full tank levels and buffer zones of city lakes. The operation, carried out in Nalla Cheruvu in Kukatpally and Kistareddypet village in Ameenpur, was aimed at reclaiming government land and preserving water bodies.

In Ameenpur, several buildings had been illegally constructed by obtaining permits using adjacent private land survey numbers.

HYDRAA commissioner AV Ranganath said, "During the drive in Ameenpur, we restored four acres of government land. Only structures constructed for commercial activities were razed. Villas occupied by families were not demolished."


At Nalla Cheruvu in Kukatpally, 16 large sheds and structures used for commercial purposes were demolished. The lake, which spans 27 acres, had seen four acres illegally occupied for activities like catering services. HYDRAA officials confirmed that these sheds had on-site cooking facilities, violating regulations for the water body’s buffer zone.

Some residents affected by the demolition raised concerns, claiming they were not given sufficient time to make alternate arrangements.

"The officials showed no leniency or compassion towards an expectant mother, proceeding with the demolition without allowing sufficient time for us to remove our belongings and vacate the premises," a tenant near Nalla Cheruvu told Times of India.

Another woman said, "We were caught off-guard when authorities arrived to carry out demolitions without any prior notice. My son had invested a great deal of effort in constructing the structure, only to be forcibly evicted."

HYDRAA has so far reclaimed eight acres of land through these demolition efforts.

"The primary objective is to safeguard essential water sources and public properties. We aim to guarantee long-term sustainability and proper utilisation of these valuable resources for the benefit of the community and the environment," Commissioner Ranganath said.

The authorities continue their efforts to address illegal constructions around water bodies in the city.