HYDRAA Secures Ammuguda Hillocks, Recovers 840 Acres of Govt Land in Hyderabad

Hyderabad's land protection agency, HYDRAA, has secured a series of hillocks near Ammuguda on the city's outskirts, marking a significant step in its ongoing anti-encroachment drive. The operation, conducted over the past week, also led to the reclamation of 840 acres of government land spread across multiple locations in the city.

Officials said the hillocks near Ammuguda were under threat from illegal mining and encroachment. Heavy machinery was used to clear the area, and barricades have been erected to prevent further trespassing. The agency has also deployed patrols to monitor the site.

Reclaiming 840 Acres Across Hyderabad

Beyond Ammuguda, HYDRAA's drive targeted several other encroached parcels of government land. The 840 acres reclaimed include plots in Shamshabad, Rajendranagar, and areas along the Outer Ring Road. Many of these were being used for unauthorized construction or agricultural activities.

“These lands are vital for public infrastructure and green cover,” a HYDRAA official said, requesting anonymity. “Our teams have identified and cleared them after due verification of records.” The agency has been using satellite imagery and revenue records to pinpoint encroachments.

Focus on Fringe Areas

The recent operations show a pattern: HYDRAA is increasingly focusing on Hyderabad's fringe areas, where land values have soared in recent years. Encroachers often target such zones, anticipating development. The Ammuguda hillocks, in particular, are ecologically sensitive, acting as water recharge zones.

Local residents have welcomed the move. “These hills were being dug up by private parties. We were worried about landslides,” said Ramesh, a shopkeeper near Ammuguda. However, some displaced families have complained of lack of notice, a point the agency says it is addressing through rehabilitation for eligible cases.

Mechanism and Challenges

HYDRAA works with revenue, forest, and municipal departments to verify land ownership before action. The agency has reclaimed over 2,500 acres since its inception, but the process is not without hurdles. Legal challenges from encroachers often delay proceedings. In some cases, courts have issued stay orders.

Officials say they are also tackling land grabbing by organized groups. “We have registered cases under the Telangana Land Grabbing Prohibition Act,” an official added. The agency is expected to intensify drives in the coming months, with a focus on lake buffers and forest lands.

What happens next: HYDRAA will continue its survey of encroached government lands, with officials planning to reclaim another 500 acres by the end of this quarter. The agency is also seeking public tip-offs through its helpline to identify new encroachments.