The Hyderabad Disaster Response & Asset Protection Agency Commissioner A.V. Ranganath on Monday defended the agency’s actions against encroachments, saying its work over the past two years had been guided by the spirit of the Constitution and aimed at protecting government land, lakes and parks.
In a statement, Mr. Ranganath said HYDRAA had acted in accordance with Articles 21 and 48A of the Constitution to safeguard public assets, which he estimated to be worth about ₹1.5 lakh crore at current market value. He said six lakes had been fully restored, while restoration work on another 20 lakes was progressing. Mr. Ranganath alleged that land mafia and encroachers were attempting to mislead courts by presenting false information. Referring to the Lothkunta land dispute, he alleged that a real estate company had attempted to take over government land worth nearly ₹10,000 crore. He further alleged that the company had carried out blasting on billion of years-old heritage rock formations and felled hundreds of trees without obtaining the required permissions. He said HYDRAA intervened following complaints from the Society to Save Rocks, environmental activists and local residents.
The Commissioner also alleged that the developer had filed a contempt case against him after encroaching upon 120 acres of government land while claiming the disputed property was located elsewhere. He said 63 contempt cases had been filed against him, which he attributed to individuals and entities whose alleged encroachments had been challenged by HYDRAA.
Mr. Ranganath said he would contest all the cases through legal means and expressed confidence in the judiciary. He added that he had always worked with respect for the law and would continue to discharge any responsibilities entrusted to him by the government with the same commitment.
Published – July 27, 2026 09:58 pm IST
