The Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) has initiated a comprehensive survey of the auctioned land parcels in the Neopolis layout at Kokapet and Budvel, following suspicions that successful bidders might have acquired more land than originally purchased. The discrepancies, primarily involving internal roads and other undeveloped areas, have raised concerns of significant over-allocations due to potential measurement errors during the layout development phase.
The HMDA’s decision to re-evaluate these land parcels, including the prominent Golden Mile project auctioned back in 2006, has led to a temporary suspension of all property registrations in these areas until a clearer picture emerges. Sources within the HMDA suggest that even a slight excess in land allocation—potentially as much as 1,000 square yards—could result in a substantial financial loss for the government. With current land prices in Kokapet averaging around Rs 2 lakh per square yard, such discrepancies could equate to a loss of approximately Rs 20 crore. The impetus behind the HMDA’s decision stems from pressures not only from within its ranks but also from the registration and stamps department, which is eager to finalise registrations to generate significant revenue. The estimated revenue from these registrations stands at about Rs 300 crore. However, HMDA officials are adamant that ensuring accuracy and fairness in the land allocation process takes precedence over immediate financial gains.
The investigation utilises advanced measurement techniques, including the Electronic Total System (ETS) for precise surveying, supplemented by physical verifications to account for the challenging terrain, which is characterised by uneven surfaces and boulders. “There have been historical issues with measurement accuracy in these areas, partly due to the topography. Our goal is to ensure that the land allocated matches what was paid for, both in Kokapet and Budvel,” stated the Metropolitan Commissioner of HMDA. The land auction in Kokapet’s Neopolis layout, conducted in two phases, has been particularly lucrative for the government. The first phase in June 2021 generated approximately Rs 2,000 crore, while the second phase in August 2023 brought in Rs 3,300 crore. However, it is worth noting that two bidders from the second phase failed to make their payments, leading to the cancellation of their bids.
Similarly, the auction of around 100 acres of land in Budvel last year yielded Rs 3,625 crore for the state. Meanwhile, the Golden Mile Project, auctioned in 2006 and often considered the flagship of state land auctions, remains partly unresolved due to ongoing litigation over certain plots within the layout. As the HMDA continues its survey, the outcome could set a significant precedent for future land auctions in Hyderabad, underscoring the importance of meticulous planning and accurate measurements. The Authority’s actions also highlight the critical balance between maximising revenue from land sales and ensuring fair dealings and transparency in land allocations.
