Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Monitoring and Protection Authority (HYDRAA) Commissioner AV Ranganath conducted a field inspection of encroachments on temple lands at Jagadgirigutta in Quthbullapur constituency on Saturday, following complaints from locals. The visit primarily focused on the lands belonging to the Govindarajula Swamy temple, including its pond and surrounding areas, which are allegedly being encroached upon.
The commissioner reviewed videos provided by the temple priest Narahari, highlighting the encroachments. Locals also pointed out illegal occupations of the nearby Parki Cheruvu. The commissioner inspected the Jagadgirigutta temple complex and its lands and confirmed that HYDRA will not intervene in constructions made before July 2024 but will take strict action against encroachments that occurred after this date.
The Commissioner took a serious view of caste-based organisations allegedly misusing temple lands for personal gains and selling plots illegally. He assured locals that HYDRAA would employ tools like Google Maps to identify encroachments post-July 2024, issue notices to violators, and register non-bailable cases. HYDRAA’s police station is set to commence operations within 15 days to streamline such actions.
Commissioner Ranganath also stated that HYDRAA would report negligence by local officials to the government. A meeting with locals concerning temple and cheruvu encroachments is scheduled for Wednesday at the HYDRA office, where the public is encouraged to present relevant documents.
The Commissioner proposed the formation of two committees: one for protecting temple lands and another for safeguarding Parki Cheruvu. He urged locals to collaborate with officials and include him in the WhatsApp groups for effective communication.
During his visit, the Commissioner was briefed that the Jagadgirigutta temple complex spans 14.10 acres, while Parki Cheruvu covers over 66 acres. He promised a survey by the Survey of India to demarcate and protect government lands.
Locals expressed satisfaction with HYDRA’s proactive measures and appreciated the commissioner for his commitment to addressing encroachments. Special prayers were conducted by the temple priests, blessing the commissioner for his efforts.
HYDRA’s inspection was supported by officials from revenue, irrigation, endowments departments, and local police, ensuring a comprehensive approach to reclaiming encroached lands.
ENCROACHMENT ON TEMPLE LANDS HYDRAA Commissioner conducting inspection in Jagadgirigutta
