HYDRAA Secures Park Land in Hyderabad, Prevents Major Encroachment Valued at 60 Crore
In a significant move to protect public assets, the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) on Monday successfully secured 3,000 square yards of park land at Narsingi junction in Arunodaya Housing Society, Gandipet. This decisive action has prevented further encroachments on land valued at approximately 60 crore rupees, safeguarding a crucial public open space for the community.
Background of the Park Land and Encroachment Issues
The land in question is part of a HUDA-approved layout located near the Narsingi sub-registrar's office. Originally, a total of 6,078 square yards was earmarked specifically for a public park, intended to serve as a green lung and recreational area for residents. However, over the years, nearly half of this designated park area—close to 3,000 square yards—was encroached upon by illegal structures, according to officials.
Of the remaining land, around 1,600 square yards had been occupied by a local individual who erected a precast compound wall and temporary sheds. Although the Narsingi municipality had previously taken steps to remove these illegal structures, the encroachments resurfaced during the transitional period of the municipality's merger with the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC). This lapse allowed unauthorized activities to persist, threatening the integrity of the public park.
HYDRAA's Intervention and Joint Action
The issue came to light following complaints from residents during HYDRAA's Prajavani initiative, a platform for public grievances. In response, HYDRAA took up the matter and coordinated with revenue and municipal authorities to conduct a thorough joint field inspection. This inspection confirmed that the land was indeed reserved for park use, validating the residents' concerns.
Despite the fact that illegal constructions had already covered nearly 3,000 square yards, officials moved swiftly to demarcate the park boundaries. They erected protective fencing around the secured area and installed prominent boards declaring the land as official park property. These measures are designed to prevent any future encroachments and clearly mark the space for public use.
Official Statements and Future Steps
Officials emphasized that this action was crucial to prevent further encroachments and protect public open spaces, which are vital for urban well-being and environmental sustainability. They added that steps will be taken to address the remaining encroachments in accordance with the law, ensuring that the entire 6,078 square yards designated for the park is eventually restored and maintained for community benefit.
This proactive effort by HYDRAA highlights the agency's commitment to asset protection and disaster response, not only in emergencies but also in safeguarding public resources from unauthorized use. It serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilant monitoring and swift action to preserve urban green spaces in growing cities like Hyderabad.
