Yusufguda, Vengal Rao Nagar, Hyderabad – Special Report – Despite repeated public complaints and even High Court admonitions, the Town Planning wing of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) continues to turn a blind eye to blatant violations in building regulations within the city. In areas like Yusufguda and Vengal Rao Nagar, the brazen rise of illegal constructions has become symbolic of the department’s apathy—or worse, alleged complicity.
Plot No. C-180, A five-storey building, constructed in violation of sanctioned norms, stands tall within a stone’s throw from the Yusufguda Municipal Corporation office and just minutes away from the residence of Hydra Commissioner, AV Ranganath. Locals say this structure, built without setbacks and in direct defiance of permissions—if any exist—was erected without fear or consequence.
locals allege that the building, believed to be intended for hostel use, was constructed with no valid permissions and is now being regularized quietly, allegedly in exchange for bribes. Some builders, it is claimed, are emboldened by connections with certain media personnel, helping them stave off scrutiny.
These aren’t isolated incidents. Across Hyderabad, buildings with permits for only three floors are being extended up to five or six floors. Critics argue this points to a systemic failure within GHMC’s Town Planning Department, where enforcement appears to depend on influence rather than law.
This is not the first time GHMC has come under judicial scrutiny. In a high-profile case concerning illegal construction in Toli Chowki’s Yusuf Tekdi Nizam Colony, the High Court of Telangana had summoned the GHMC Commissioner to appear in person on December 19, 2024, for failing to act. Justice K. Lakshman’s bench expressed sharp disapproval:
“GHMC seems more focused on collecting property tax than enforcing construction laws. When people approach the courts, the officials act as if it’s a waiting game. Public trust is eroding rapidly.”
The court ordered strict action against errant officials and warned that negligence in curbing unauthorized construction would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
As Hyderabad continues to grapple with unplanned urbanization, the silence—and alleged collusion—of the very authorities tasked with regulating development poses serious questions. Will the GHMC Town Planning officials finally act, or will their inaction continue to fuel this illegal construction spree?
