Hyderabad: HYDRAA clears playground encroachments in Shastripuram Colony

Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) conducted a major demolition drive in Shastripuram Colony of Mailardevpally village, Rajendranagar mandal, in Ranga Reddy district on Wednesday, April 1, removing illegal constructions raised on land earmarked for a public playground.

Encroachments on designated playground land

The move was carried out within an 188-acre HUDA-approved layout where an area of about 6,500 square yards had been officially reserved for a playground in Shastrapuram.

Despite this clear designation, encroachers had been illegally occupying the land over the past three years, selling plots through notarised documents and initiating construction without obtaining any permissions.

Multiple structures brought down

During the operation, HYDRAA officials demolished five under-construction G+3 buildings along with two small single-room structures. Two additional buildings were left untouched as they were already occupied, officials said.

Prior notices ignored by violators

Authorities noted that the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) had previously issued notices to those responsible for the encroachments. In 2024, GHMC also passed speaking orders warning that demolition action would be taken. However, the illegal construction activity continued despite these warnings.

Residents’ complaint prompts action

The move gained momentum after residents of Shastrapuram Colony lodged a formal complaint with HYDRAA. Acting on this, officials from HYDRAA, along with GHMC and revenue departments, conducted a ground inspection and confirmed that the disputed land was indeed reserved for a playground as per the approved layout, a release said.

Following verification, HYDRAA issued warnings against further construction and proceeded with demolition on Wednesday morning. The encroachments were cleared, restoring the land for its intended public use.

High-value public land safeguarded

Officials stated that the move helped protect public land valued at approximately Rs 100 crore, ensuring that the designated playground remains available for community use.