Hyderabad: Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) on Thursday removed encroachments around Mondikunta lake near the Hitex exhibition centre in Madhapur, reclaiming nearly 11 acres of govt land valued at an estimated ₹2,200 crore, officials said. The demolition drive was conducted at Khanamet in Serilingampally following complaints received through HYDRAA’s Prajavani programme. Residents had raised concerns that portions of the lake and adjoining government land were being illegally occupied. Acting on the complaints, officials carried out a joint inspection with revenue and GHMC authorities before initiating the drive. “During the operation, temporary sheds and several commercial establishments, including mechanic and iron shops, were removed. Some structures had come up within the lake’s full tank level limits and surrounding govt land,” said HYDRAA commissioner AV Ranganath. Authorities verified revenue records and examined satellite imagery obtained from the National Remote Sensing Centre prior to taking action. Officials said those concerned were informed in advance. The demolition was carried out under police protection, and fencing has been installed to prevent fresh encroachments. Following the clearance, local residents have urged the authorities to take up development and beautification of the lake and to create parks on the reclaimed land.
