HYDRAA receives surge in complaints over encroached drains across Hyderabad
Hyderabad: Complaints of encroachments on stormwater drains are mounting across Hyderabad, with residents raising concerns over increasing flood risks during the monsoon. On Monday, June 9, the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency’s (HYDRAA) Prajavani platform received 58 complaints, over 60% of which related directly to encroachments on drains.
Residents alleged that in many areas, more than half of the original width of drains has been encroached upon. They stressed that restoring drains to their full width would go a long way in preventing urban flooding. Several complainants shared that water from overflowing drains regularly enters their homes and apartment basements, damaging property. Submerged vehicles have often had to be sold for scrap.
People expressed frustration that every rainfall brings disruption. Many are unable to sleep peacefully during rains, and it takes days to clean up and restore their homes. Residents cited the example of Patny Nala at Rasoolpura and urged that drain widths be increased near Chikoti Gardens and the Prakashnagar Metro Station.
HYDRAA Additional Director Varla Papayya reviewed the complaints submitted via Prajavani, which included not just drains but also reports of encroachments on lakes, government lands, and public parks.
In Durga Province Colony under Ameenpur Municipality, residents said flooding occurs every year. Rainwater from surrounding colonies is diverted into their area, submerging roads and homes. Children and the elderly are often confined indoors for days. Colony representatives stated that new buildings have been constructed across natural water flow paths. They requested officials to inspect the area and ensure that stormwater drains are connected to nearby lakes.
At Langar Houz Lake, residents reported that the original 38-acre lake has now shrunk to 24 acres. They alleged that individuals, with support from a local MLA, dismantled the fencing, destroyed the bunds, and constructed a road across the lakebed. The area is now being used for transport and parking. Locals urged the government to remove encroachments and restore the lake to its original condition.
In Miyapur, under Survey No. 39, Maktha Mahboobpet Lake is facing ongoing encroachment. In nearby Survey No. 44/5, five acres of government land classified as mining land have also been occupied. Residents reported that encroachers used forged documents and built 12 sheds. In 2013, the Tahsildar issued notices and demolished the structures, but the land was later reoccupied. The land is estimated to be worth ₹3,000 crore. Locals demanded legal action and protection of the government property.
Residents of Anand Bagh Colony in Medchal–Malkajgiri district said Streets No. 10 and 11 have been blocked since 2019, cutting off access. They stated that these roads had been in use for 14 years, and they are now forced to use alternative routes through neighboring colonies.
In Pragathinagar Colony under Dommaiguda Municipality, residents complained that land designated for a park has been illegally occupied. The Plot Owners’ Welfare Association has filed a formal complaint regarding the encroachment.
As complaints pile up, residents continue to call for swift action from authorities to clear encroachments and restore vital drainage infrastructure before the full onset of the monsoon.
