HYDERABAD: HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath on Monday inspected flood-prone areas of Madhapur, focusing on water flow in nalas and identifying obstructions. He discussed with GHMC, irrigation and HMWSSB officials the steps needed to prevent rainwater stagnation near Nectar Gardens, which gets submerged during rains.
Officials suggested draining excess water out of the Durgam Cheruvu during the rainy season, as it remains full even in dry months. Locals informed the Commissioner that rainwater often reaches waist level in the locality.
Ranganath examined the inflow and outflow of Durgam Cheruvu and inspected its sluices and gates. He also reviewed encroachments and obstructions in the lower part of the lake, debris dumping near Inorbit Mall and complaints about vehicles parked in the area. Officials were asked to gather detailed information on these issues.
A review meeting will soon be held with departments concerned to discuss water level management at Durgam Cheruvu. While nala expansion is needed, officials will explore other feasible measures to reduce flood risks in Madhapur. Ranganath directed that water released from Durgam Cheruvu should reach Malkam Cheruvu in Raidurgam without obstruction.
Nala encroachment plaints dominate HYDRAA Prajavani
Encroachment of nalas and stormwater drains topped the list of grievances at the HYDRAA Prajavani programme held on Monday. Of the 58 complaints received, over 60% were related to obstruction of natural drains, with citizens saying floods could be mitigated if drains were fully widened. Several reported that overflowing nalas were flooding cellars, damaging property and forcing them to endure sleepless nights during heavy rains.
Residents sought widening of the Patny nala at Rasoolpura, Chikoti Gardens and Prakash Nagar Metro station for free flow of water. HYDRAA Additional Director Varla Papaiah reviewed the complaints on encroachments over nalas, water bodies, government lands and parks.
147 plaints to GHMC
Meanwhile, the GHMC received 147 grievances at its Prajavani programme, with the town planning wing getting the highest (28), followed by sanitation (5), health and engineering (3 each), vigilance and land acquisition (2 each), and other wings (1 each). Four complaints came via telephone.
Across GHMC’s six zones, 163 applications were received, highest from the head office (65), followed by Kukatpally (27), Serilingampally (22), Secunderabad (16), LB Nagar (11) and Charminar (2).