The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has warned of strict action against individuals allegedly demanding money by falsely using the agency’s name, and urged residents not to make payments to such persons.
The warning followed direct complaints and reports on social media, according to a report by Telangana Today. HYDRAA said people receiving such demands should immediately approach the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), the agency itself or their local police station.
The agency has also clarified the limits of its powers amid concerns over people invoking its name in matters involving buildings and unauthorised construction. HYDRAA said it does not independently act against illegal structures or unauthorised constructions.
According to the agency’s clarification, HYDRAA removes dangerous buildings only when requested by the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), the relevant corporation or municipal authorities. Its action is limited to dilapidated buildings that pose a risk to public safety, the report said.
This distinction is significant for property owners, occupants and businesses facing claims that a structure will be demolished or sealed in exchange for payment. HYDRAA’s statement indicates that action relating to illegal or unauthorised construction is not initiated independently by the agency, while interventions involving dangerous buildings require a request from the concerned civic body.
A senior HYDRAA official also reiterated that hostels operating from unsafe buildings should shift to secure premises by December 31, a deadline that had already been set. The direction places responsibility on operators of such hostels to move out of buildings considered unsafe, although the report did not provide details about the number of establishments covered or the enforcement process after the deadline.
Residents can report suspected extortion to the ACB through its toll-free number, 1064, or contact the HYDRAA Control Room on 1070. Complaints may also be submitted at HYDRAA offices or local police stations.
The agency’s warning comes as a reminder that citizens should verify the identity and authority of anyone seeking money in its name. HYDRAA has asked the public not to pay such individuals and to report the demands through the designated channels. The December 31 deadline for unsafe hostels remains the stated next milestone in the agency’s public-safety directive.
