There are indications that the government may be reconsidering its stance on demolitions in the Musi River floodplain areas. Reports suggest that instructions were given to HYDRA, the enforcement agency, to refrain from aggressive actions, unlike those previously carried out in Ameenpur, Sunnam Cheruvu, and Katwa Cheruvu regions. The government is reportedly contemplating offering compensation beyond the previously announced double-bedroom homes for the displaced, with a focus on ensuring a peaceful resolution rather than using force. Recent developments suggest a change in approach.
HYDRA’s demolition drive, which began on August 24 with the razing of the N Convention Centre owned by actor Nagarjuna, continued with demolitions in areas such as Ameenpur and Kukatpally. The agency, led by Commissioner Ranganath, received widespread praise, with requests for HYDRA’s intervention even coming from other districts. During the recent heavy rains in Khammam and Vijayawada, HYDRA’s efforts were hailed as essential for preventing future natural disasters.
However, over the past few days, public sentiment has shifted. Residents from the Musi floodplain, who had purchased land and built homes with legal permissions, have begun voicing their opposition. They are now resisting government surveys and the marking of their properties, questioning why they should vacate homes they built through years of hard work. Their anger is directed at the government’s reversal of previously granted permissions, and many are refusing the offer of double-bedroom homes. Viral videos of these protests have highlighted the emotional toll on affected residents.
Opposition parties have stepped in to support the affected residents. BRS leader Harish Rao and BJP leader Eatala Rajender have launched campaigns advocating for the displaced. In response, the BRS has established a toll-free number for residents to report their grievances.
In light of this growing backlash, it appears that the government has taken note. Reports suggest that officials have been instructed to halt the marking of structures in the Musi floodplain, with a directive to avoid harsh measures or intimidating tactics. Field-level officers have been advised to handle the situation with care, even if residents express anger, in an effort to prevent escalation.
The government has identified a 50-meter buffer zone along the Musi River, where approximately 8,000 structures are located. Of these, 3,000 are within the Full Tank Level (FTL) zone, and another 2,100 are in the riverbed. The government’s current plan is to first relocate those directly in the riverbed, before addressing the remaining structures. However, many displaced residents are reportedly unwilling to move into double-bedroom homes located far from the city.
As a result, the government is considering offering local double-bedroom accommodations. Additionally, steps are being taken to provide ration cards to those who do not have them and to extend other government welfare schemes to affected families. The government has also instructed officials to assist in enrolling displaced children in gurukuls. These measures are intended to build trust and encourage peaceful vacating of the area.
Many of the residents in the Musi floodplain purchased land and built homes several decades ago, with some properties now valued at several crores. Given this, there is growing concern that the current offer of a double-bedroom home is insufficient. Talks are reportedly underway to significantly increase the compensation for affected residents, with an official announcement expected in the coming days.
The Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) has also turned its attention to the issue, following a wave of social media criticism directed at the government’s handling of the demolitions. TPCC Chief Mahesh Kumar Goud has reportedly met with local corporators, MLAs, and other public representatives from the affected areas. The TPCC is preparing a report to present to the government, outlining the appropriate level of compensation and steps to ensure peaceful relocation.
Sources indicate that the TPCC is concerned about the overzealous actions of certain officials, which could harm the government’s and party’s reputation. The report is expected to be submitted to Revanth Reddy in the coming days.