Minister Ponnam cancels GHMC staff leave amid Hyderabad heavy rain forecast

Hyderabad: Transport Minister and Hyderabad district in-charge Ponnam Prabhakar has cancelled leave for all staff of GHMC, Water Works, Hyderabad Police, electricity, and other key departments in view of the ongoing rains and forecast of heavy showers in the coming days.

At a review meeting in the GHMC office with Mayor G. Vijayalakshmi, Commissioner R.V. Karnan and senior officials, the minister directed all departments to work in coordination to ensure citizens face no hardship during the rains. He also asked them to monitor the spread of seasonal diseases and address public grievances promptly.

Hyderabad rain preparedness plan to focus on drainage and public safety

GHMC Commissioner R.V. Karnan presented details of road repairs, water drainage, and sanitation measures taken so far. Metro Water and Sewerage Board MD Ashok Reddy flagged choke points in the sewage and stormwater network and suggested permanent fixes.

Prabhakar instructed officials to stay active with their teams throughout the rains, stressing that GHMC should act as the liaison for quick problem-solving. He also warned of strict action against dumping of construction waste into lakes, ponds, and drains.

The minister called water conservation a social responsibility, urging that rainwater be absorbed into the ground to boost groundwater levels. He said an awareness drive should be launched, and that a master plan was being prepared to address temporary flooding that disrupts traffic in some areas.

Speaking to the media, Prabhakar said the government was committed to preventing any loss of life or property during the rains, crediting the chief minister’s earlier instructions for averting damage so far. He appealed to residents to contact authorities immediately in case of any issue for quick resolution.