Strict Action Against Extortion in Agency’s Name: HYDRAA

HYDERABAD: The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has issued a stern warning against unscrupulous elements extorting money and intimidating citizens by falsely invoking its name. Urging the public to remain vigilant, the agency advised citizens not to believe such fraudulent claims, make zero payments, and immediately lodge complaints with the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), local police stations, or HYDRAA. 

The advisory comes in the wake of viral social media posts and direct public complaints reporting extortion attempts by impersonators claiming to represent the agency. 

Clarifying its operational mandate, HYDRAA stated that it does not independently or directly initiate enforcement action against unauthorized or illegal constructions. Demolitions are executed strictly upon formal requisitions from municipal corporations—including the GHMC, CMC, and MMC—and are confined to structurally unsound, dilapidated buildings that present an imminent threat to human lives. 

The agency also recalled its directive regarding hostels being operated in unsafe structures, reiterating the deadline of December 31 for management to shift occupants to structurally safe premises.

Helpline Numbers for Complaints:

• ACB Toll-Free Number: 1064

• HYDRAA Control Room Toll-Free Number: 1070