Vox Populi: Hyd sees surge in illegal constructions despite crackdown

Demolitions necessary to enforce rules

Unauthorised constructions should be demolished to maintain planned urban development and ensure public safety. Many people violate building regulations by adding extra floors or extending structures without permission. Such practices can weaken buildings and create problems for neighbouring residents. The municipal authorities’ action is welcome, provided demolitions are carried out fairly and strictly according to the law, without discrimination or political influence.”

- Jashwanth, Hyderabad

Authorities must protect residents’ rights

Demolishing unauthorised constructions is necessary, but authorities must follow proper procedures before taking action. Residents should receive prior notices, an opportunity to explain their cases, and sufficient time to comply with regulations wherever legally permitted. Some families may have invested their lifetime savings in their homes. Officials must distinguish deliberate violations from genuine documentation disputes and ensure that no property is demolished arbitrarily.

- Varma, Hyderabad

Prevent illegal constructions at the beginning

Instead of waiting until buildings are completed, municipal officials should strengthen inspections during construction. Unauthorised structures often emerge because of poor monitoring or delayed enforcement. Regular field visits, transparent building approvals, and strict action against violators can prevent future problems. Authorities should also investigate whether officials neglected their duties. Early intervention would reduce financial losses for property owners and help cities develop in an organised and sustainable manner.

- Rahim, Hyderabad

Illegal constructions rampant in Old City

Illegal constructions are becoming a matter of serious concern across Hyderabad, particularly in the Old City, where multi-storey buildings are coming up in narrow residential lanes. These structures raise serious questions about building permissions, parking facilities, and the growing strain on civic infrastructure. Some of the builders, despite obtaining permission for only G+2 floors, are constructing buildings with five to seven floors. This blatant violation of building regulations must be stopped. Officials must take strict action against those responsible for such illegal constructions.

- K Venkatesh, Old City

Political interference alleged

Although the civic authorities are making some efforts to curb unauthorised constructions, suspected violations continue in certain areas due to alleged interference of political leaders and locals. “No builder or politician should be above the law. Honest GHMC officials must be allowed to act without political pressure. Residents must not face intimidation for raising genuine complaints. Hyderabad needs transparent enforcement, accountability, and equal justice—not protection for violators.

- Asif Hussain, Activist.

Building-by-building survey needed

A comprehensive building-by-building survey should be conducted across all zones to verify sanctioned building plans, permitted floor limits, renovation approvals, and unauthorised extensions. Strict action must also be taken against buildings found to have illegal water supply and sewerage connections, wherever such violations are established.

- Mohammed Ahmed, Tolichowki.

Residents’ bodies face false cases’ threat

Residents and community organisations raising civic concerns are facing threats of false cases, while some fear that their identities may be disclosed to those they report. These allegations warrant an independent investigation, along with effective safeguards to protect citizens from intimidation and ensure the confidentiality of those who raise genuine civic concerns.

- K Srikanth, L B Nagar.

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