Alleged illegal constructions raise safety concerns

Metro India News | BHADRADRI KOTHHAGUDEM

Allegations are mounting over the unchecked construction of multi-storey buildings without official permissions in the Vidyanagar Panchayat of Chunchupalli Mandal, Bhadradri Kothagudem district. Residents claim that the unauthorized developments, reportedly carried out in buffer zones and on the ayacut of Chintala Cheruvu, are increasing the risk of flooding during the monsoon season. 

According to local residents, influential builders continue to construct high-rise buildings despite lacking mandatory approvals, allegedly with the backing of powerful political leaders. Several multi-storey buildings are reportedly being erected indiscriminately within the buffer zone surrounding Chintala Cheruvu. Officials had earlier constructed large drainage outlets to divert excess water whenever Chintala Cheruvu reached full capacity. 

However, residents allege that illegal constructions and encroachments have severely damaged this drainage network, leaving rainwater with no outlet. As a result, heavy rainfall now causes water to accumulate on Vidyanagar's main roads instead of flowing through the designated drainage system. Locals fear that nearly 70 percent of the Vidyanagar area could face severe waterlogging during periods of intense rain.

The area also falls under the provisions of the 1/70 Agency Regulation, which places restrictions on land transactions and development in tribal areas. Despite these legal safeguards, locals allege that large commercial and residential buildings continue to rise in violation of existing regulations. People living in Vidyanagar have urged the panchayat irrigation and other concerned authorities to immediately halt all unauthorized construction activities. The residents have appealed to the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation, enforce the law, and take strict action against all unauthorized buildings in order to protect public safety and prevent further environmental damage.