HYDRA Defends Its Actions Against Encroachments, Says Commissioner

HYDRA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath has asserted that the agency is functioning as a legally established institution and is carrying out its responsibilities strictly in accordance with the law. He alleged that certain real estate developers and land encroachers are deliberately spreading false information against HYDRA to protect illegal occupations of government lands, lakes, and public parks. He emphasized that the agency respects the judiciary while remaining committed to protecting public property.

The commissioner said HYDRA has safeguarded nearly 3,350 acres of government land valued at around ₹1.5 lakh crore and is restoring 25 lakes across the region. He added that eligible families affected by the anti-encroachment drives are being provided double-bedroom houses, while compensation through TDR is being offered in eligible cases. Authorities are also verifying land records and satellite imagery to distinguish genuine occupants from recent encroachers.