HYDRAA gets Police backup: New powers to combat encroachments in Hyderabad
The Revanth Reddy government is taking significant steps to enhance the functioning of the Hyderabad Disaster Response-Assets Monitoring and Protection Agency (HYDRAA). To strengthen its efforts in protecting public spaces, ponds, canals, and water bodies from illegal encroachments, the government is set to grant HYDRAA more legal powers under the Revenue and Prevention of Encroachments Act.
A proposal to transfer authority from local Collectors to HYDRAA has already passed through the necessary channels, with the Law Department raising no objections. Currently, the file rests with Minister Ponguleti Srinivasareddy and is expected to reach Chief Minister Revanth Reddy soon for final approval. Once the approval is given, HYDRAA will gain control over several key departments, including revenue, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA), and panchayat raj, among others.
This new authority will allow HYDRAA to issue notices and take swift legal action against illegal encroachments. Earlier, interventions from officials like Collectors, Revenue Divisional Officers (RDOs), or Tehsildars were required, causing delays in enforcement.
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In addition to these legal powers, the police department has also assigned 15 inspectors and 8 sub-inspectors to HYDRAA. This team will work on deputation to ensure that HYDRAA has adequate enforcement support to carry out its duties effectively. These measures are expected to speed up demolition drives and protect Hyderabad’s water bodies and public spaces from further illegal occupations.
HYDRAA’s efforts are seen as crucial in maintaining the city’s environmental balance, and the added legal and police backing is likely to improve the agency’s operational efficiency.
