Hyderabad is gearing up for the rainy season, with the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Authority (HYDRAA) taking steps to prevent roads from flooding. They have identified 349 areas prone to flooding in Hyderabad, Cyberabad, and Rachakonda.
HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath held an important meeting with traffic police and other officials to improve the city’s flood readiness. Key figures like Joint CPs Gajarao Bhupal and Joel Davis, along with HYDRAA Additional Director V Papa Rao, attended.
The Commissioner stressed the need for all departments to work together to stop water from accumulating on roads. He said it’s crucial to have clear strategies for each problem and emphasized teamwork among departments.
Officials have been told to stay alert in the flood-prone areas once rain alerts are issued. Special focus is on areas connected to lakes and drains, which can worsen flooding. Ranganath mentioned that two hours of rain can raise lake levels by one meter, but it takes a week for the water to recede, highlighting the need for urgent monitoring of lake levels.
HYDRAA is working on expanding stormwater drains in key areas like Patny, Chikoti Gardens, and Chintal Basti in Secunderabad. The Commissioner reminded everyone that the courts prohibit building on lakes and drains and stressed the need to remove illegal structures quickly.
Additionally, HYDRAA has pinpointed 50 major areas in the city where flooding happens often. Ranganath noted that long-term solutions are needed in these spots. To handle emergencies during heavy rains, HYDRAA will deploy 150 Monsoon Emergency Teams to support the existing 51 Disaster Response Teams in three days. These teams will work closely with GHMC, and coordinate with the Water Board, Traffic Police, Irrigation, and Electricity departments.
HYDRAA has also set up a phone number for citizens to report illegal activities around lakes. People can call 7207923085 to report any violations. Alternatively, citizens can send photos and location details via WhatsApp to 8712406899, allowing for real-time reporting with evidence.
