GHMC demolishes 30-year-old huts encroaching on stormwater drain in Hyderabad's Tolichowki

The demolition drive commenced around 9 am, with GHMC personnel removing structures that had allegedly encroached 10 to 15 feet into the stormwater nala. Municipal authorities maintained that the unauthorised constructions were obstructing the natural flow of rainwater, posing a risk of waterlogging and flooding in surrounding residential areas during heavy rainfall.

The operation witnessed resistance from some occupants, who protested against the demolition of structures they claimed had existed for approximately 30 years. The situation remained tense for a brief period as civic officials proceeded with the removal of encroachments. However, no detentions were reported during the operation.

While the demolition drew opposition from those directly affected, some residents of the surrounding neighbourhood welcomed GHMC's action. They alleged that certain huts had been used for unauthorised liquor sales and had become gathering points for groups of youngsters, creating concerns over public safety and disturbances in the locality. These allegations were made by residents and have not been independently established.

GHMC officials maintained that the primary objective of the demolition was to restore the stormwater drain's carrying capacity and ensure unobstructed drainage. The civic body acted in accordance with the High Court's directions concerning encroachments affecting public drainage infrastructure.

Stormwater drain encroachments have remained a persistent challenge in several parts of Hyderabad, particularly in densely populated localities where residential and commercial structures have expanded close to natural drainage channels. Such obstructions can reduce the capacity of drains to carry rainwater, contributing to flooding during intense monsoon spells.

The Hakeempet operation highlights the continuing challenge faced by municipal authorities in balancing the enforcement of urban planning regulations with the concerns of people occupying long-established structures.

Although the immediate demolition exercise was completed without reported detentions, the removal of decades-old dwellings has brought renewed attention to questions surrounding encroachment removal, rehabilitation and the protection of critical drainage infrastructure in Hyderabad.