Telangana HC issues stern warning to HYDRA
The Telangana High Court has issued a stern warning to the government agency, HYDRA, which was established to tackle illegal constructions around lakes and water bodies across the state. HYDRA has been actively demolishing illegal structures built in Full Tank Levels (FTL) and buffer zones. However, its actions recently sparked controversy after it demolished several houses belonging to underprivileged residents near Ameenpur Lake. This led the affected residents to file a petition with the High Court.
During the hearing, the High Court was displeased with HYDRA’s decision to carry out demolitions on weekends. The court questioned why the agency found it necessary to conduct these operations on Saturdays and Sundays, issuing notices and executing demolitions during holidays. The court expressed its frustration, reminding HYDRA that such actions are not allowed on weekends as per legal norms.
HYDRA’s commissioner, Ranganath, attended the hearing virtually, while the local Tahsildar from Ameenpur was present in court. When questioned, Ranganath explained that the demolitions were conducted based on a request from the Tahsildar. However, the court strongly criticized this approach, questioning the rationale behind acting on such requests without proper consideration.
The magistrate remarked, “Does a request justify demolishing properties without adequate assessment? What was the urgency if the buildings were not vacated? Would you act the same way with iconic structures like Charminar or the High Court?”
The court also warned HYDRA against bending the law to satisfy political agendas, emphasizing that any future illegal actions would result in accountability. The High Court reiterated that demolitions on Sundays are strictly prohibited and that the agency must adhere to the law going forward.
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