Hyderabad, September 25, 2024 — In a significant move to enhance disaster management capabilities, the State government has initiated steps to grant statutory powers to the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Protection Authority (HYDRAA). On Wednesday, officials issued orders sanctioning 169 posts across various categories to be filled on a deputation basis within the office of the Commissioner of HYDRAA.
The newly sanctioned positions include four additional commissioners, five Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), 16 Circle Inspectors (CIs), 16 Sub-Inspectors (SIs), 60 police constables, 12 station fire officers, and 10 assistant engineers. This staffing increase is expected to empower HYDRAA to operate more effectively in disaster management and response operations.
In tandem with these personnel changes, the government is reportedly amending several key legislations to facilitate the smooth functioning of HYDRAA. Plans are also underway to introduce an ordinance that would endow HYDRAA with enforcement powers concerning various acts, including the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) Act, Telangana Municipal Act, Irrigation Act, and Water, Land, and Trees Act (WALTA).
The initiative comes in response to increasing concerns over the authority’s powers to address encroachments on vital water bodies, which have been linked to flooding in vulnerable areas during the monsoon season. The authority has faced backlash for its demolition of alleged illegal constructions on government lands and water bodies, with critics accusing HYDRAA of selective enforcement.
Despite widespread public outcry over the demolitions—particularly affecting homes and apartments situated within Full Tank Levels (FTL) and buffer zones of water bodies—the Revanth Reddy government is pressing forward with plans to empower HYDRAA.
Authorities have emphasized that the bolstered HYDRAA will play a crucial role in safeguarding Hyderabad against natural disasters and ensuring effective management of its water resources. As the government moves ahead with these changes, it remains to be seen how they will address the concerns raised by residents and activists regarding enforcement practices.