The move to enhance urban governance and disaster management, the Telangana government has announced the formation of the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Monitoring and Protection (HYDRA) entity. This new body is poised to manage an extensive 2,000 square kilometre area, aligning with the proposed geographical expansion of Greater Hyderabad up to the Outer Ring Road (ORR).
The Chief Minister of Telangana, during a recent review meeting, outlined the strategic transfer of several key powers from the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) to HYDRA. Among these are the authority to remove unauthorized hoardings and flexes, as well as the collection of penalties associated with these violations. This shift aims to streamline urban management and enhance regulatory enforcement within the expanded city limits.
A crucial component of the Chief Minister’s directive includes ensuring that police station limits and assembly constituency boundaries fall within the same zonal division. This measure is expected to foster more effective governance and service delivery within the newly defined zones. The Chief Minister has emphasized the need for a rigorous study to establish stringent rules to combat the encroachment of nalas, ponds, and government lands. This initiative aims to protect Hyderabad’s natural resources and prevent illegal occupations that can lead to environmental degradation and urban flooding. Coordination among various urban development bodies is a key focus for HYDRA. The Chief Minister has called for regular collaboration between the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA), Hyderabad Water Works, Disaster Management, and Municipal departments. This interdepartmental synergy is intended to create a robust framework for urban management and disaster response.
To ensure HYDRA’s effectiveness, the Chief Minister has proposed special budgetary allocations if necessary. This financial support is crucial for the nascent body to establish itself as a formidable force in urban management and disaster preparedness. Additionally, there are plans to restructure the existing Enforcement, Vigilance, and Disaster Management (EV&DM) wing of the GHMC, incorporating it into HYDRA’s framework. This reconstitution will expand HYDRA’s jurisdiction to include 27 municipalities and corporations, as well as 33 village panchayats surrounding the GHMC area.
Leadership for HYDRA will be provided by a DIG-rank officer, with SP-rank officials serving as additional directors. These positions will be supported by dedicated teams from the GHMC, HMDA, Hyderabad Metro Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWS&SB), city traffic police, and other relevant departments. The scope of HYDRA’s responsibilities extends beyond disaster response. The body will play a critical role in protecting lakes, ponds, water bodies, and government lands within its jurisdiction. Moreover, HYDRA will handle emergencies related to drinking water pipelines, drainage systems, power distribution lines, and traffic regulation, ensuring comprehensive urban management.
