Hyderabad drains get major cleanup boost as HYDRAA launches ‘Operation Drain’

Hyderabad: The condition of Hyderabad’s drains has undergone a significant transformation following large-scale desilting operations launched by the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA). Since July 1, HYDRAA, in coordination with the Disaster Response Force (DRF), has been clearing drains, culverts, and flood-prone areas across the city as part of “Operation Drain.”

Under the supervision of HYDRAA Monsoon Emergency Teams and DRF officials, tons of plastic waste, thermocol, garbage, and wild vegetation have been removed, helping restore the natural flow of water.  Culverts and manholes previously blocked by silt and overgrowth are now operational, with waste being transported out of localities promptly. Residents near canals and low-lying areas have welcomed the efforts, saying water is flowing freely for the first time in years.

 HYDRAA teams have been using dry spells between rains to carry out the cleanup efficiently. The focus is to prevent water stagnation and traffic congestion during monsoon showers. Officials are monitoring work on-site, ensuring culverts and drains are cleaned area-wise and that cleared waste is removed immediately to avoid re-blockage.

 In addition to desilting, HYDRAA has also taken steps to remove encroachments obstructing key drains. At Khairatabad, unauthorized structures on the Bulkapur drain near Sridhar Function Hall were cleared. A similar operation was carried out at the drain linked to the IDL Lake in Kukatpally.

At Khairatabad Junction, a culvert clogged with large amounts of waste was cleaned using long-arm JCBs. The removed materials were loaded into trucks and transported away. Locals watching the clear water flow again expressed relief, with many saying, “This is what HYDRAA means.”

The ongoing operations, driven by field-level monitoring and inter-agency coordination between GHMC, the Water Board, and HYDRAA, aim to minimize flood risks and ensure smoother water management during the monsoon.