Hyderabad: HYDRAA Commissioner warns of strict action against misuse of agency's name
Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) Commissioner, A.V. Ranganath, on March 18, 2025, has issued a stern warning against individuals engaging in illegal transactions or malpractices using the agency's name. In a statement, he said that strict action would be taken against anyone found misusing HYDRAA's name, either directly or indirectly, for illicit activities.
The Commissioner had previously announced on September 3, 2024, that any evidence of malpractices should be immediately reported to HYDRAA. In cases where evidence is lacking, complaints should be directed to the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Vigilance Enforcement Department, or local police stations. If the malpractices involve HYDRAA employees, the agency will take swift disciplinary actions, including suspensions.
Several cases have already been filed related to such malpractices. If there are complaints about HYDRAA transactions involving notices, Jadcherla MLA Anirudh Reddy has been advised to inform the ACB, Vigilance, or local police, or escalate the issue to the government.
Complaints Addressed by HYDRAA:
Ranganath also addressed previous complaints received from MLA Anirudh Reddy. Two complaints were filed in 2024, one on August 18 and another on December 21. The first complaint was regarding water stagnation at Thautanikunta in Khajaguda, which was causing flooding in the Greengrass apartment cellar. The second complaint concerned floodwater from Thautanikunta not draining into Bhagirathamma Lake after the water level rose.
The Commissioner personally visited the site twice to assess the situation and explored solutions, including diverting floodwater into Bhagirathamma Lake. Encroachments around the lake were cleared by HYDRAA in December 2024. However, no complaints regarding the Vamsiram Manhattan project were received from the MLA.
Ranganath noted that complaints regarding any projects can be submitted via WhatsApp for review, as the agency has previously responded to concerns raised through this platform. He assured that complaints from public representatives are prioritized.
Efficient Response to Public Complaints:
The HYDRAA Commissioner assured the public of a swift response to complaints. Ranganath highlighted that each complaint is carefully reviewed in a transparent manner. If he is unavailable to take a call during meetings, he ensures that messages are addressed. Complaints can also be submitted during the "Prajavani" program held every Monday or from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on other working days.
Ranganath further stated that HYDRAA had received a total of 9,800 complaints, many of which have already been resolved. He added that the agency follows a detailed review process, and while some resolutions may take time due to the complexity of the issues, the agency is committed to finding solutions.
The Commissioner personally reviews complaints every Monday from 11:00 a.m. and assigns responsibility for their resolution using tools like Google Maps, satellite images, and Survey of India maps. Additionally, he conducts follow-up reviews twice a week to monitor the progress of ongoing cases.