A.V. Ranganathan, the HYDRA Commissioner, has rejected claims suggesting that the real estate sector in Hyderabad has suffered due to the activities of HYDRA. In a phone-in session organized by ETV-Telangana, Ranganathan responded to various questions, including concerns regarding the impact of HYDRA on the city’s real estate market.
Ranganathan stated that the downturn in the real estate sector is a broader trend seen across southern India, not just in Hyderabad. He pointed out that cities such as Karimnagar, Warangal, and Khammam have also experienced a decline in real estate, despite the absence of HYDRA’s involvement. He emphasized that there is no connection between HYDRA and the decline in the real estate sector, as the agency only targets illegal constructions encroaching on lakes and water bodies.
Addressing the media’s focus on HYDRA’s role, Ranganathan expressed concerns that the agency was being blamed for all real estate issues, despite its mandate to address only illegal structures. He further questioned why the real estate downturn in Hyderabad was being solely attributed to HYDRA when similar issues exist in other regions.
HYDRA’s Actions and Future Plans
Ranganathan clarified that HYDRA has been focusing on demolishing illegal constructions that have emerged after its formation, while leaving pre-existing structures intact. He also revealed plans to make buffer zones visible through Google Maps for transparency. He reassured that permits granted before HYDRA’s establishment are still valid and that the agency has remained consistent in its actions from day one.
On the demolition of the N Convention building, Ranganathan clarified that smaller adjacent structures were not demolished, as they were given time or alternative options to relocate. He reaffirmed that HYDRA’s focus is on illegal constructions, not those with valid permits.
Ranganathan also addressed issues in Gajula Ramaram near Chintal Cheruvu, where 54 small houses have been constructed. He accused wealthier individuals of attempting to encroach on lands designated for the poor, explaining that, unusually, property owners were paying tenants to secure permits for these lands.
