Hyderabad: Payment Issues Halt Demolition of Illegal Constructions
Private agencies hired to demolish illegal constructions in Hyderabad have reportedly stopped providing their services to HYDRA, the official agency responsible for the task. These agencies are demanding their pending payments before continuing the assigned work. The government currently owes HYDRA Rs 35 crore, creating a financial crunch for the agency.
According to sources, HYDRA had partnered with private contractors to help demolish illegal structures and protect lakes from encroachments. The work required expensive logistical support, such as bulldozers, cranes, and other machinery. Over the last six months, the contracted agencies have completed their tasks but have yet to receive payments for their services. HYDRA, unable to clear the accumulated dues due to a lack of funds, has been facing mounting pressure from these agencies.
The government has reportedly released funds to cover salaries but not for operational expenses. HYDRA Commissioner AV Ranganath has been repeatedly requesting the Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) department to release funds to settle the outstanding payments. Senior officials even raised the issue during the recent Assembly winter session, where assurances were given that all pending bills would be cleared soon.
However, HYDRA officials are concerned that the agencies might completely stop their work if payments are not made by the end of this month. Some agencies have already warned of suspending their services. Attempts to hire new contractors have also failed, as no agency is willing to take up the work amidst the ongoing financial crisis.
Without the necessary funds, HYDRA is finding it increasingly difficult to carry out demolition activities and enforce measures to protect lakes and water bodies from illegal encroachments. Delays in the work could lead to further complications for the government, as it may disrupt plans to safeguard the city’s natural resources.
