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HYDRAA Clarifies: No Authority to Permit Buildings Near Lakes and Water Bodies
Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has clarified that it is not authorized to issue No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for buildings near lakes and water bodies in the city. Currently, the responsibility for issuing NOCs lies with the irrigation department, while HYDRAA is tasked with enforcement activities. Other state departments, including revenue and irrigation, are responsible for serving notices, with HYDRAA executing the necessary actions.
HYDRAA has requested the authority to serve notices directly, but this proposal is still pending approval from the relevant authorities. Recent claims suggesting that HYDRAA will issue NOCs have been dismissed as false by officials.
On Wednesday, HYDRAA commissioner A.V. Ranganath visited the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) to seek assistance in gathering crucial data for disaster management purposes. Discussions during the visit included the potential use of aerial services and digital mapping technologies for assessing existing infrastructure and planning future projects. HYDRAA is also working on accessing historical satellite data up to 2024 to monitor the status of water bodies and nalas in Hyderabad.
The agency plans to utilize geographical maps and real-time data on water bodies to enhance its decision-making capabilities in areas such as weather forecasting, rainfall tracking, and overall disaster management. By leveraging advanced technologies and collaborating with organizations like the NRSC, HYDRAA aims to improve its ability to protect the city’s assets and respond effectively to potential disasters.
Importance of Protecting Water Bodies
The clarification from HYDRAA regarding its role in issuing NOCs for buildings near lakes and water bodies highlights the importance of protecting these vital resources. Water bodies play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, recharging groundwater, and providing a habitat for various species of flora and fauna.
Unregulated construction activities near lakes and water bodies can lead to several problems, including:
- Encroachment of water bodies, reducing their size and capacity
- Disruption of natural drainage patterns, leading to increased flooding risk
- Pollution of water bodies due to untreated sewage and industrial waste
- Degradation of water quality, affecting aquatic life and human health
The Role of Government Agencies
To address these issues and protect water bodies, it is essential for government agencies like HYDRAA, the irrigation department, and other relevant authorities to work together. By clearly defining their roles and responsibilities, these agencies can ensure effective enforcement of regulations and prevent unauthorized construction activities near lakes and water bodies.
The use of advanced technologies, such as aerial services, digital mapping, and satellite data, can greatly assist these agencies in monitoring water bodies and identifying potential violations. By leveraging these tools, the authorities can take proactive measures to prevent encroachments and protect the city’s valuable water resources.
Conclusion
The clarification from HYDRAA regarding its authority to issue NOCs for buildings near lakes and water bodies is a step in the right direction. It emphasizes the need for clear communication and collaboration among various government agencies to protect these essential resources.
As the city of Hyderabad continues to grow and develop, it is crucial to prioritize the protection of its water bodies. By enforcing strict regulations, utilizing advanced technologies, and promoting public awareness, the authorities can ensure the long-term sustainability of these vital resources for the benefit of the city and its residents.
