Telangana High Court Pulls Up HYDRAA Over Illegal Construction in Salkam Cheruvu FTL Area

Hyderabad, May 2, 2026: The Telangana High Court has strongly reprimanded HYDRAA for its inaction against alleged illegal construction at the Barrister Fatima Owaisi Educational Campus, reportedly built within the Full Tank Level (FTL) area of Salkam Cheruvu lake.
Court Questions Authorities’ Inaction
The court raised serious concerns over:
• Lack of action despite visible encroachment
• Selective enforcement by authorities
• Failure to monitor construction over years
It questioned how such a large structure could remain unchecked since 2005.
Inquiry Ordered Against Officials
The court directed multiple departments — including Revenue, Irrigation, Municipal Administration, and Education — to:
• Conduct a detailed inquiry into responsible officials
• Submit a report on lapses and accountability
Construction Without Clear Approvals
The bench questioned:
• Whether valid permissions were granted
• Who issued occupancy certificates
• How utilities like water and electricity were approved
Student Safety Highlighted
The judge also raised concerns about:
• Structural safety of buildings inside a lake area
• Potential risk to students
Authorities were advised to shift willing students to nearby government institutions if required.
Strong Observations by Court
The court criticized:
• “Non-action” despite clear violations
• Authorities acting only after judicial intervention
• Lack of proper responses from departments
What Happens Next
• Departments and institution to file responses
• Next hearing scheduled for July 3, 2026
Bigger Impact
The case highlights:
• Growing concerns over lake encroachments in urban areas
• Need for stricter enforcement of environmental and building norms
• Accountability of civic bodies