Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has reclaimed 1,313.19 acres of encroached government land across Telangana. The recovered land is estimated to be worth ₹65,650 crore, HYDRAA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath said.
He disclosed the details while addressing senior IAS officers and disaster management officials. The interaction took place during a five-day programme titled Municipal Governance for Administrators at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand.
According to Ranganath, the reclaimed land includes lakes, parks, roads, and nalas encroached upon over the years. He added that the State government has also initiated steps to remove encroachments along the Musi river basin. The objective is to restore the river’s natural flow.
HYDRAA adopts a nature-based approach to curb floods
Ranganath said rapid urbanisation prompted the Telangana government to establish HYDRAA. He described the agency as the first of its kind in the country. He also termed it a landmark reform in urban disaster management aimed at safer and sustainable urban living.
By adopting a nature-based approach, HYDRAA has restored lakes, stormwater drains, and interconnected nalas. These efforts, he said, have significantly reduced flood risks in Hyderabad. In the past, poor nalla management had caused flooding in several residential colonies. That situation led to large-scale desilting and restoration works.
During the monsoon season, HYDRAA focuses on flood prevention measures. In non-rainy periods, the agency targets flood-causing factors. Officials also ensure that lakes are emptied before the onset of rains.
Stressing the need to protect public lands, Ranganath said safeguarding parks, lakes, roads, and nalas is essential. He noted that such measures help reduce pollution, prevent floods, and improve groundwater recharge. He added that HYDRAA’s actions have clarified government land records, lake boundaries, and Full Tank Level limits. This clarity, he said, has boosted public confidence and encouraged safer real estate development.