Hyderabad: HYDRAA has intensified operations to locate three individuals who went missing after falling into open drains during Sunday’s heavy rains. Commissioner AV Ranganath on Monday morning personally inspected search efforts near Afzal Sagar drain in Asif Nagar and Vinobha Nagar drain in Musheerabad.
He directed staff to open and inspect every catch pit in the vicinity and to reseal them immediately after checking. He also instructed teams to coordinate with other departments for faster results. Hyderabad Collector Smt. Harichandana joined the inspection at Afzal Sagar.
According to officials, the missing include Arjun (26) and Ramu (25), both from the Afzal Sagar area, along with Dinesh alias Sunny (26) from Vinobha Nagar. All three reportedly went missing Sunday evening during heavy flooding. HYDRAA has continued the search into Monday, focusing on downstream catch pits and potential clog points.
Drain encroachments blamed for disaster
Speaking to reporters, Commissioner Ranganath attributed the incident to drain encroachments and the unscientific diversion of natural water flow. He said HYDRAA will remove one or two major obstructions but assured residents that no mass evictions would take place.
He noted that many poor families live near these drains and said the government would provide alternative housing if demolitions become necessary. “The government is sympathetic to the people with low-income. We are working accordingly,” he said.
Recurring monsoon hazard draws criticism
Residents and Nampally MLA Majid Hussain criticised repeated monsoon flooding, calling it a yearly crisis. Ranganath admitted that the problem stems from systemic issues and said HYDRAA will study the matter with GHMC, Irrigation, and Revenue departments.
He cited Ameerpet as a success story, where clearing underground drains ended recurring flooding. He also revealed that HYDRAA had removed 2,200 lorry loads of debris this season alone and plans to intensify the drive citywide.
“Neighboring states are watching our model and asking for similar systems,” he added.
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— HYDRAA (@Comm_HYDRAA) September 15, 2025
