HYDRAA orders unsafe hostels to shift, inspections from Jan 1

HYDRAA has directed hostel operators in unsafe buildings to relocate to structurally sound premises within three months. Commissioner AV Ranganath warned that inspections will begin on January 1 and unsafe structures face demolition.

Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA)  on Wednesday directed hostel operators in unsafe buildings to shift to structurally sound premises with required permissions within three months. It warned that inspections would begin on January 1 and buildings at risk of collapse would be demolished.

HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath told hostel operators and building owners at a meeting in Buddha Bhavan that residents’ safety could not be compromised. He said fire safety, emergency exits, and structural stability must be prioritised.

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HYDRAA acted after an under-construction building collapsed in Anjaiah Nagar, Gachibowli, killing two people and damaging nearby structures, according to a press release.

Ranganath said inspections and action against hostels in unauthorised buildings would be conducted in coordination with the three municipal corporations. Operators should not endanger lives by charging low fees or compromising safety for money, he said.

He likened seven-storeyed buildings constructed on 50 square yards to ‘suicide bombers’, saying they endangered neighbouring structures. Six hazardous buildings adjoining the collapsed structure had been demolished.

Ranganath also recalled that a building in nearby Siddiq Nagar had tilted in 2024. Inspections of some city hostels revealed widespread violations, he said.