HMDA aims to generate Rs.1,500 crore this financial year

From reeling under a severe financial crisis to a relatively sound financial position now, the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) has turned the tables around and is setting high targets this financial year. HMDA Commissioner T Chiranjeevulu shares his plans and targets with media.

Q: Compared to the last financial year, how is HMDA placed this year?

A: We are in a much better position. During 2015-16, earnings through developmental charges were Rs 156 crore but in 2016-17, earnings increased to Rs 347 crore through developmental charges and installment system provided to developers. We expect generate at least Rs 550 crore in the same way in 2017-18. Construction activity is picking up in Hyderabad.

Q: At this rate, what is the target set for 2017-18?

A: In all, HMDA earnings should be around Rs 1,500 crore this financial year. Rs 550 crore is expected from developmental charges, Rs 300 crore from Land Regularisation Scheme (LRS) applications and about Rs 500 crore through sale of open plots.

Q: What is the status of the integrated master plan and what are the recommendations?

A: We have submitted the integrated master plan to the State government on March 31 for approval.

Q: After Uppal Bhagath, will HMDA go for Land Pooling



scheme again?

A: Yes, there are plans for introducing land pooling scheme in Medipally, Pratap Singaram and other areas. Already draft rules have been prepared and sent to the government for approval.

Q: What are the top projects slated for this year?

A: To begin with, the Inter City Bus Terminal would be grounded at Miyapur, followed by Logistics Parks at Bata Singaram and Mangalampally. This apart, an Eco Park at Kothwalguda and Outer Ring Road works, including service roads and Highway Traffic Management System will be completed.

Q: There are complaints about delays in processing LRS applications?

A: Over 1.70 lakh LRS applications have been filed. Unlike all these years, this time we are involving retired revenue officials and scrutinising every application thoroughly. There are shortfalls in nearly 1 lakh applications and the same has been intimated to applicants. About 20,000 applications have been cleared and 30,000 have been rejected.

Q: The State government is focusing on saving and developing urban lakes. What are the plans?

A: There are 3,132 lakes in the HMDA limits. Already, surveys pertaining to 2,020 lakes have been completed. Regarding fencing, the respective Collectorates will be responsible for protection and clearing encroachments.