Hyderabad, once lauded for its rapid urbanisation, is now facing a critical challenge in maintaining its systematic growth due to a rising tide of illegal constructions and encroachments across its sprawling urban landscape. The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), responsible for overseeing the city’s development and regulation, is grappling with severe manpower shortages, which have severely hampered its ability to enforce building laws and curb the illegal construction menace.While agencies like HYDRA (Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Monitoring and Protection), led by senior IPS officer A V Ranganath, have made notable strides in tackling encroachments along water bodies, the situation in GHMC-controlled areas is far from under control.
These areas, particularly in the newer parts of Hyderabad, have witnessed an alarming increase in illegal buildings, many of which deviate significantly from approved building plans. From the IT hubs of Madhapur to rapidly developing suburbs like Narsingi and Kukatpally, violations are rampant, with residents voicing their concerns over congested roads, lack of parking spaces, and substandard infrastructure.Despite the growing number of complaints from citizens, GHMC officials admit that the lack of adequate personnel and resources is a major obstacle to action. “We rely on public complaints to act on illegal constructions,” says a senior Town Planning official in Serilingampally Municipality. “But the reality is that our resources are stretched thin.
We can only issue notices, levy fines, and occasionally demolish illegal structures when resources permit.” The shortage of equipment and staff has led to an uneven enforcement of building norms, allowing violators to escape with minimal consequences.This issue is particularly concerning in the wake of the post-pandemic real estate boom. The demand for commercial spaces, hostels, and hotels has surged, especially in areas surrounding tech hubs, resulting in a construction frenzy. Many of these new buildings bypass regulations by raising additional floors or encroaching on public spaces, undermining the city’s long-term urban planning. In the Old City and parts of Secunderabad, the situation is already dire, with commercial properties constructed without sufficient parking or basic amenities, further exacerbating the urban chaos.
The lack of a comprehensive enforcement strategy in these areas has triggered widespread public frustration. Residents, who have lodged complaints at various stages of construction, are often told that enforcement will only take place after a building is complete, leaving them with little recourse. Moreover, those who attempt to report violations before construction begins are often told that the structure is still in the planning phase and no action can be taken until further progress is made.As Hyderabad continues to expand at a rapid pace, it is clear that the city must adopt a more sustainable and equitable approach to urban development. Ensuring the timely enforcement of building norms and improving the enforcement apparatus will be crucial in maintaining a city that is not only functional but also livable for all its residents. With the current state of affairs, it appears that Hyderabad is at a critical juncture—one that demands urgent attention to prevent a slide into chaos.