Cyberabad Police Hold Meeting to Improve Hostel Safety
To improve security and fire safety in hostels, Cyberabad Police Commissioner Avinash Mohanty held a meeting with hostel owners from Madhapur and Balanagar zones. A total of 225 hostel owners attended the meeting to discuss important safety measures.
The Commissioner highlighted that Cyberabad has around 4,000 hostels with cyber facilities. Over the last 20 years, the area has grown into a major IT hub and continued to expand even during the pandemic. Hyderabad is also becoming a global center for capability centers, healthcare services, and photonics.
These hostels provide accommodations ranging from budget-friendly to premium options, mainly for people coming from outside the city. Cyberabad is a preferred destination for students and working professionals due to its advanced infrastructure, well-managed traffic, and high-quality hostel facilities.
Joint Commissioner of Traffic, Dr. Gajarao Bhupal, stressed the importance of maintaining proper records of paying guests. Hostel owners must verify the background of residents and collect necessary details such as Aadhaar card copies, recent photographs, phone numbers, workplace details, and emergency contact information.
Additionally, hostel owners should monitor residents’ daily routines, including their office timings and travel routes, to ensure safety. This will help create a secure environment for all residents.
Mamatha, Joint Secretary of the SCSC Women Forum, mentioned that the Safe Stay Project, launched by the Society for Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC), introduced ten key guidelines for hostel safety. A survey was conducted based on these guidelines. SCSC is also developing a central platform where people can find information on hostels, including room availability, pricing, and amenities.
HYDRA Additional Director (Fire) raised concerns about fire safety, stating that 75% of hostels do not follow fire safety regulations. Authorities must ensure that hostels obtain the required fire safety certificate (NOC) and follow safety protocols. This includes proper handling of electrical equipment, kitchen appliances, and smoking materials, as well as installing smoke detectors and alarms.
He also shared that the Telangana Fire Services Department offers a one-day fire safety training program for hostel staff. SCSC, the police, and hostel owners should work together to improve fire safety and maintain high security standards in Telangana.