GHMC to acquire 260 properties for stormwater drains in Hyderabad

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) will acquire 260 properties by paying compensation of more than Rs 80 crore for the development of stormwater drains in the city. Strategic Nala Development Programme (SNDP) by GHMC was launched in November 2020 to fix the drainage system after the floods that caused havoc in the city. The SNDP wing is accountable for developing and maintaining the stormwater drain/nala system in Hyderabad. Though 260 properties with a combined extent of 23,000 square yards have been registered for purchase through the legal route, GHMC is making attempts to obtain properties through negotiations under GHMC Act. Dr C Vasantha, Chief Engineer, SNDP, told the media that while some packages are currently under the procurement stage, the elimination of encroachments is being observed by zonal commissioners. After the land purchase, the nala widening or reconstruction works will start after October. Those who had settled on government land more than 10 years ago were being paid compensation at the current market rates. But, encroachments less than 10 years old were removed immediately. Image SourceAlso read: Housing society in Pune uses leftover food to light its parks