Hyderabad: Minister Seethakka Orders Crackdown on Illegal Constructions on Water Bodies

Hyderabad, Sept 6: Telangana’s Minister for Panchayat Raj, Rural Development, and Water Supply, Seethakka, has instructed officials to immediately identify illegal structures on ponds, streams, and other water bodies across the state’s villages. The Minister emphasized the urgency of the situation and directed that a detailed report be submitted without delay.Following a high-level review meeting with department officials, including Secretary Lokesh Kumar and Commissioner Anita Ramachandran, Seethakka held a teleconference with district authorities to discuss the steps necessary for flood prevention. The Minister noted that the recent floods in the state were a result of unprecedented rainfall compounded by encroachments on natural water bodies.”Encroachments are contributing to the flooding, and we must act swiftly. Zilla Panchayat officials must identify illegal constructions at village reservoirs and report them to the District Collectors,” Seethakka said during the meeting.In an effort to enhance flood preparedness, the Minister proposed the formation of flood management committees consisting of five officers in each mandal. The state has also urgently sanctioned Rs. 24 crores for the renovation of rural roads affected by floods and rains.Top officials, including Mission Bhagiratha and Panchayat Raj ENCs Krupakar Reddy and Kanakaratnam, along with other senior officials, participated in the review meeting.