Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Monitoring and Protection Agency (HYDRAA) on Thursday removed the shutters of many shops in Manikonda’s Neknampur. Hydro officials have taken action against structures built to run commercial establishments in residential buildings.
Authorities pulled down the shutters of the Raga apartment complex on Anuhar morning after residents of 38 flats complained to HYDRAA, Manikonda municipal authorities and Narsingi police that the residential space of the apartments had been illegally converted into commercial space.
Hydra officials, along with police officials, tried to remove the shutters, causing tension in the area. Residents and business owners raised an uproar and tried to stop the demolition drive, but authorities continued the operation.
According to Hydra, the residents of 38 flats illegally converted the ground floor of the apartment into a commercial complex despite obtaining permission for residential purposes. Locals said that they filed a complaint at Narsingi police station three years ago.
HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath and local municipal officials inspected the field two weeks ago. During the inspection, the commissioner questioned both the residents and builders responsible for converting the place into a commercial establishment. The commissioner also asked if anyone tried to blackmail the builder, to which the builder clarified that there was no such incident.
HYDRAA issued a building plan, which designated the ground floor as a parking space facing the main road. However, the builder had converted the place into a commercial unit without taking necessary permission from the authority.
At the time the shutters were removed, a vegetable shop and a black shop of brisk commercial business were in operation. Banks and other places planned to operate electric vehicle charging stations were empty. Officials highlighted that such conversions pose security threats.
Hydra has also pointed out that by closing the elevation corridor and constructing the strong room required for the bank, the structural integrity of the building may be compromised. Officials said cracks had already appeared in the structure.
Manikonda Municipal Commissioner said that the notice has already been issued. After no response, a show cause notice was sent.
Addressing the allegation of extortion by some flat owners, Ranganath said, “The allegation that some flat owners have demanded money is completely false. During the interrogation, I put both parties face to face and specifically asked for any blackmail or money in front of everyone. The answer is no.”
The commissioner added, “The builder is trying to work smart and is working behind the scenes.” He dismissed as “nonsense” claims that the agency was acting under pressure from influential people.