Illegal Compound Wall Demolished in Divyanagar Layout, Ranga Reddy District

Hyderabad: In a significant move to address long-standing grievances of residents, the Hyderabad Road Development Authority (HYDRAA) demolished an illegally constructed compound wall in Divyanagar Layout, located in Pocharam Municipality, Ranga Reddy district. The wall, constructed by local landowner Nalla Malla Reddy without proper permissions, had obstructed access to several nearby colonies and restricted the movement of residents and plot owners for months.

The demolition, carried out on Saturday, marked the culmination of numerous complaints from residents who alleged that the compound wall not only blocked access to essential roadways but also created significant challenges in selling or utilizing their plots.

Community Complaints and Controversy

The compound wall, which enclosed the 200-acre Divyanagar Layout in Survey No. 66, had been a source of frustration for the local community. Residents alleged that gates installed on the wall were operated by Reddy, who imposed specific entry timings and required visitors to register their details for access. This restricted freedom of movement for the plot owners and made it difficult to showcase their properties to potential buyers.

In addition to restricted access, residents raised concerns about intimidation. Many claimed they were harassed or faced scrutiny when attempting to enter the layout. There were also allegations of unfulfilled promises related to infrastructure development, such as roads and sewage systems, despite the collection of development charges.

HYDRAA Steps In

The situation escalated to the attention of HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath, who personally inspected the site on January 8 after receiving formal complaints from affected plot owners. A subsequent investigation confirmed that the compound wall was constructed without any legal authorization. Acting on this evidence, Commissioner Ranganath issued demolition orders to remove the illegal structure and restore access to the layout and surrounding areas.

On Saturday, HYDRAA officials conducted the demolition, clearing the wall and gates that had caused so much inconvenience. The move was met with widespread relief and appreciation from the local community, who viewed it as a victory for residents’ rights and justice.

Impact and Future Prospects

Divyanagar Layout comprises 2,218 plots, with approximately 30% reportedly owned by Nalla Malla Reddy. The illegal wall had hindered access to these properties and disrupted the lives of many residents. Following the demolition, plot owners now have unobstructed access to their properties, which they hope will improve the usability and marketability of their lands.

“This is a major relief for all of us,” said a resident of Divyanagar Layout. “For months, we were unable to freely access our properties, and the intimidation tactics only added to our difficulties. With the wall gone, we can now move forward without unnecessary restrictions.”

The HYDRAA’s decisive action is being hailed as a precedent for addressing similar issues across the region, highlighting the importance of safeguarding residents’ rights and ensuring strict enforcement of construction regulations.

Officials have also stated that further steps will be taken to ensure proper infrastructure development in the layout, fulfilling the promises made to the residents when the plots were initially sold.