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HYDRAA Intensifies Fire Safety Inspections Across Hyderabad, Warns of Strict Action

Hyderabad:
The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has stepped up enforcement of fire safety norms across the city, warning of strict action against establishments violating regulations.

HYDRAA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath has ordered intensified inspections across commercial zones following recent fire incidents. He directed officials to ensure strict compliance with fire safety regulations in both commercial establishments and residential areas.

A coordination meeting was held on Wednesday with officials from the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), the Fire Services Department, and the Electricity Department to streamline enforcement measures.

Inspection teams have been instructed to conduct checks at business complexes, furniture showrooms, textile shops, and other commercial premises. Establishments found violating mandatory fire safety norms will be sealed, the commissioner said.

Power Disconnection for Non-Compliance

Ranganath also ordered the immediate disconnection of electricity supply to non-compliant establishments. Officials were directed to paste notices declaring such premises as lacking mandatory fire safety measures. Inspections will be conducted across all parts of the city without exception.

Public Urged to Report Fire Hazards

The commissioner appealed to citizens to report potential fire hazards to the HYDRAA control room at 9000113667. Residents were asked to share the exact location along with photographs or videos of unsafe conditions. He assured that the identity of informants would be kept confidential.

HYDRAA emphasized that public cooperation is crucial to preventing fire accidents and ensuring public safety across Hyderabad.

Hyderabad Police ‘Arrive Alive’ Road Safety Program Draws Over 600 Participants

The Hyderabad City Police on Wednesday, January 28, organised ‘Arrive Alive’, a road safety awareness programme, at the APJ Abdul Kalam Auditorium in Ibrahim Bagh. The event was held in collaboration with Vasavi Engineering College and was attended by over 600 students and faculty members.

Addressing the gathering, Joint Commissioner of Police Joel Davis said the Arrive Alive movement was launched by Telangana Director General of Police B. Shivadhar Reddy with the aim of ensuring that road safety awareness reaches every household and institution across the State.

Highlighting the alarming rise in road accidents, Davis said nearly 8,000 people lost their lives in road accidents in Telangana last year, adding that 70–80 per cent of these fatalities were preventable had basic safety precautions been followed. He also underlined the severe socio-economic impact road accidents have on families.

Speaking about the Good Samaritan Act, Davis explained that bystanders who assist accident victims are not required to disclose personal details or phone numbers and will not be compelled by police to act as witnesses. He added that private hospitals are legally mandated to provide immediate treatment during the ‘golden hour’, and noted that the government is exploring reward mechanisms through the Transport Department for individuals who help save lives.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Rahul Hegde said roads are shared public spaces and traffic rules are designed to ensure safety and equal access for all citizens. He urged students to behave responsibly on roads and to act as ambassadors of road safety in society.

Municipal Elections in Telangana Scheduled for February 11-2026

The State Election Commission (SEC) of Telangana on Tuesday announced that elections to seven Municipal Corporations and 116 municipalities across the state will be conducted on February 11. The announcement marks the beginning of the election process for urban local bodies after a review of administrative and security preparedness.

State Election Commissioner I. Rani Kumudini released the election schedule after holding a comprehensive meeting with all District Collectors and Superintendents of Police, during which polling arrangements, law and order, and logistical preparedness were discussed.

Election Schedule

As per the notification:

  • January 28: Election notice to be issued by Returning Officers; ward-wise electoral rolls to be displayed
  • January 30: Last date for filing nominations
  • January 31: Scrutiny of nominations and publication of valid candidates list
  • February 1: Filing of appeals against rejected nominations
  • February 2: Disposal of appeals
  • February 3: Last date for withdrawal of nominations and publication of final contesting candidates list
  • February 11: Polling day
  • February 12: Re-polling, if necessary
  • February 13: Counting of votes and declaration of results

The Model Code of Conduct for the concerned urban local bodies will come into force immediately after the issuance of the election notification.

Voter and Ward Details

A total of 52.43 lakh voters are eligible to vote in these municipal elections. This includes:

  • 25.62 lakh male voters
  • 26.80 lakh female voters
  • 640 voters in other categories

Polling will be conducted in 2,996 wards spread across 123 urban local bodies, reflecting the scale and significance of the exercise.

Polling Infrastructure and Security

To ensure smooth conduct of elections, the SEC has planned extensive arrangements:

  • 8,203 polling stations
  • 16,031 ballot boxes
  • 137 strong rooms for secure storage of ballot boxes
  • 136 counting centres across the state

Adequate police personnel will be deployed at polling stations, counting centres, and sensitive locations. Special attention will be given to vulnerable and sensitive wards, with additional security measures and surveillance.

Reservation of Wards

The SEC detailed the reservation pattern for wards, aimed at ensuring inclusive representation:

  • Women (Unreserved): 864 wards
  • General (Unreserved): 647 wards
  • Backward Classes (General): 463 wards
  • Backward Classes (Women): 391 wards
  • Scheduled Castes (General): 254 wards
  • Scheduled Castes (Women): 190 wards
  • Scheduled Tribes (General): 147 wards
  • Scheduled Tribes (Women): 40 wards

The reservation system is in line with constitutional provisions and state government guidelines to promote participation from socially and economically weaker sections.

GHMC and Other Municipalities

The State Election Commission clarified that elections to three Municipal Corporations, including the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), and five municipalities will be conducted at a later date. The schedule for these elections will be announced separately after addressing administrative and legal considerations.

Political Significance

The municipal elections are expected to be a litmus test for political parties ahead of future state-level contests. Major political parties are likely to intensify campaigning in urban areas, focusing on civic infrastructure, sanitation, drinking water supply, roads, and urban governance.

From Hyderabad to the USA: A Father’s Unfulfilled Dream and a Son’s Historic Cricketing Rise

When Vikram Reddy Sudini left Hyderabad for the United States in 1999, he wasn’t just moving countries — he was leaving behind a dream that had defined his youth. A passionate cricketer who had grown up playing the game with dedication and ambition, Vikram had once hoped to make a name for himself on the cricket field. However, like countless others, life took a different turn.

Armed with an engineering degree and aspirations of building a stable future, Vikram relocated to the U.S. to work as a software engineer. The move brought opportunity, security, and success — but it also meant stepping away from competitive cricket. The bat and ball were replaced by keyboards and code, yet the love for the game never faded.

A Dream That Refused to Die

Although Vikram’s personal cricketing journey ended prematurely, the dream itself remained alive. When his son Nitish Reddy Sudini was born, Vikram saw not pressure, but possibility. Rather than forcing ambition, he gently introduced Nitish to the game that had shaped his own childhood.

What began as playful tennis-ball cricket soon turned into structured practice. Vikram noticed his son’s natural timing, discipline, and hunger to improve. Living in the U.S. — a country where cricket still fights for mainstream attention — posed challenges. Facilities were limited, competition was sparse, and opportunities were far fewer compared to cricket-mad nations like India.

Yet, Vikram refused to let geography become an excuse.

Hyderabad: The Classroom That Built a Cricketer

Every year, Vikram brought Nitish back to Hyderabad, ensuring his son trained in proper Indian cricketing conditions. From turf wickets to quality coaching, Nitish experienced the grind of competitive cricket early on. He practised against spin bowlers, learned footwork on slower pitches, and developed the temperament needed for long innings.

These trips were more than just training stints — they were lessons in discipline, humility, and resilience. While other children enjoyed holidays, Nitish spent countless hours in the nets, absorbing advice from coaches and guidance from a father who understood both the joy and heartbreak of the sport.

Rising Through the Ranks in the USA

Back in the U.S., Nitish continued playing league cricket, gradually gaining attention for his consistency and maturity beyond his years. His technique — clearly influenced by Indian conditions — stood out in American cricket circles. Soon, he earned selection for the USA Under-19 team, a major milestone not only for him but for his family.

The real breakthrough came on the global stage.

A Historic World Cup Moment

At the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup, Nitish Reddy Sudini delivered a performance that rewrote American cricket history. Facing New Zealand, one of the tournament’s strongest sides, Nitish played a composed, fearless innings — scoring an unbeaten 117.

With that knock, he became the first cricketer from the United States to score a century at any ICC World Cup event.

As Nitish raised his bat, acknowledging applause from around the ground, his parents watched from the stands — emotional, proud, and overwhelmed. For Vikram, it was a moment decades in the making. The dream he once carried as a young boy in Hyderabad had finally found its destination.

More Than Just a Century

Nitish’s achievement was not just about runs on a scoreboard. It symbolised:

  • The growing footprint of cricket in non-traditional nations
  • The sacrifices immigrant families make for their children
  • The power of perseverance across generations

Nitish credits his father for everything — from early morning practices to annual trips across continents. He has often spoken about drawing inspiration from Chris Gayle, admiring his confidence and match-winning ability, while striving to build his own identity.

Eyes on the Future

With the Under-19 World Cup now behind him, Nitish Reddy Sudini has set his sights on bigger goals:

  • Representing the USA senior national team
  • Playing in Major League Cricket (MLC)
  • Competing against the world’s best cricketers

For Vikram, the journey has come full circle. What began as an unfulfilled dream transformed into a guiding force — one that helped his son achieve something historic.

A Story Beyond Cricket

This is not just a sports story. It is a reminder that dreams don’t always end — sometimes, they evolve. Vikram Reddy Sudini didn’t get to live his cricketing ambition on the field, but through patience, sacrifice, and belief, he helped his son do something even greater.

From the streets of Hyderabad to the world stage, the Sudini family’s story is proof that passion, when nurtured across generations, can cross borders — and make history.

Telangana completes GHMC reorganization with 12 zones and 60 circles

Telangana completes GHMC reorganization with 12 zones and 60 circles

With the completion of the delimitation exercise, the expanded Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has emerged as the largest municipal corporation in the country.

Hyderabad: The Telangana government on Thursday completed the long-pending reorganisation of GHMC divisions, a move aimed at enhancing governance and improving service delivery across the rapidly expanding metropolitan region.

GHMC Commissioner R.V. Karnan issued the final notification, formally concluding the division bifurcation and zonal reorganisation process.

Simultaneously, the government released G.O. Ms. No. 292, outlining the newly restructured zones, circles, and divisions under the GHMC framework.

New Governance Architecture for the City

Under the revised administrative framework, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) will now operate through 12 zones and 60 circles, replacing the earlier six-zone structure. The reorganisation is aimed at improving administrative efficiency, promoting decentralised decision-making, and enhancing the delivery of civic services across the city.

Previously, GHMC comprised six zones—LB Nagar, Charminar, Serilingampally, Khairatabad, Kukatpally, and Secunderabad. As part of the restructuring, six new zones have been added: Malkajgiri, Uppal, Shamshabad, Rajendranagar, Golconda, and Quthbullapur, expanding the governance framework to better manage the city’s growing metropolitan footprint.

Each zone will comprise a minimum of four and a maximum of seven circles, depending on population and geographical spread.

Special Chief Secretary Post Created

In a significant administrative development, the Telangana government has created a new post of Special Chief Secretary, Metropolitan Area and Urban Development (within HMDA limits) to oversee the developmental needs of Hyderabad and the broader metropolitan region.

Senior IAS officer Jayesh Ranjan has been appointed to the newly created position. The role is expected to provide focused leadership and ensure coordinated planning for urban infrastructure, growth management, and overall metropolitan development within the HMDA jurisdiction.

Zonal Commissioners Appointed

Following the completion of the reorganisation, the Telangana government has appointed IAS officers as Zonal Commissioners for the newly created zones, ensuring that the restructured administrative units become operational without delay.

Zonal Commissioners Appointed

The Telangana government has appointed IAS officers as Zonal Commissioners for all 12 GHMC zones to ensure a smooth transition following the administrative reorganisation.

The newly appointed Zonal Commissioners are:

  • Bhorkhade Hemant Sahadeorao – Serilingampally
  • Apurv Chauhan – Kukatpally
  • Sandeep Kumar Jha – Quthbullapur
  • S. Srinivas Reddy – Charminar
  • G. Mukunda Reddy – Golconda
  • Priyanka Ala – Khairatabad
  • Anuraag Jayanti – Rajendranagar
  • N. Ravi Kiran – Secunderabad
  • K. Chandrakala – Shamshabad
  • Hemanta Keshav Patil – LB Nagar
  • Sanchit Gangwar – Malkajgiri
  • Radhika Gupta – Uppal

Officials stated that the swift appointment of Zonal Commissioners would help maintain continuity in governance and ensure the new administrative units become fully functional without delay.

‘No Disruption to Civic Administration’

GHMC Commissioner R.V. Karnan said the newly appointed Zonal Commissioners would assume charge immediately. He assured that all necessary arrangements had been made to ensure civic administration and essential public services continue uninterrupted during the transition.

Public Objections Examined

Before finalising the reorganisation, GHMC invited objections and suggestions from the public for nearly two weeks. After reviewing the representations received, authorities revised the boundaries and names of several divisions to address concerns raised by residents and other stakeholders.

Scale of the Reorganisation

  • Divisions renamed: 30
  • Divisions with boundary changes: 104

GHMC’s current administrative spread now covers:

  • Districts (fully/partially): 5
  • Mandals: 47
  • Villages: 311
  • Parliamentary constituencies: 6
  • Assembly constituencies: 28

“The comprehensive overhaul of GHMC’s administrative structure, along with the creation of a dedicated metropolitan-level leadership post, is expected to strengthen urban governance and support Hyderabad’s rapid growth in the coming years,” Commissioner Karnan said.

Training begins for newly elected sarpanches in Telangana

Training begins for newly elected sarpanches in Telangana

Hyderabad: Newly elected sarpanches, who recently celebrated their electoral victories, are now gearing up to take on their official responsibilities. District officials have begun conducting training programmes to familiarize them with their roles, including key schemes such as the National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS). Under this scheme, families contribute ₹500 annually to receive an insurance benefit of ₹20,000 in the event of the death of the family head.

The training also emphasizes critical local governance responsibilities, such as ensuring villages have adequate water supply and are not affected by scarcity.

In Bhadradri Kothagudem, the newly elected sarpanches attended sessions at the Dr. Manmohan Singh Institute of Science and Technology (KSM old campus) to prepare for effective administration of their panchayats.

The training programme for all 471 gram panchayat sarpanches in Bhadradri Kothagudem district is being conducted in phases. The first phase, held from January 19 to 23, includes 237 newly elected sarpanches from 14 mandals, while the second phase is scheduled from February 3 to 7.

The initiative aims to provide sarpanches with a comprehensive understanding of village governance, including administrative procedures, the Panchayat Raj Act, their responsibilities, and the implementation of rural development programmes.

Collector Jitesh V. Patil advised the sarpanches to prioritize basic amenities such as drinking water, sanitation, roads, electricity, and healthcare. He emphasized the importance of advance planning to prevent water scarcity and to ensure efficient use of funds for infrastructure projects like roads, streetlights, power poles, and public toilets.

The collector also highlighted that, despite the district’s many scenic tourist destinations, several areas remain underdeveloped due to limited publicity. He urged sarpanches to promote local tourist spots, natural resources, and unique village features, which could enhance tourism and strengthen the rural economy.

​ GHMC Elections 2026: be ready to vote

​GHMC Elections 2026

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) elections are just around the corner. Your vote is your voice—it helps shape our city’s future, from safer roads and cleaner neighborhoods to smarter urban planning.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Check the official voter list today and make sure your name is included so you’re ready to vote.

How to check your name:
​🌐 Visit: https://electoralsearch.eci.gov.in/
​🔍 Search using your EPIC Number (on your Voter ID) or your personal details.
​✅ Confirm your polling station and ward details.
​Important Details:
​Current Term Ends: February 2026
​Action Needed: If your name is missing, apply for inclusion immediately on the Voters’ Service Portal.Share this message with your neighbors and loved ones. Together, let’s make every voice count and achieve full participation in Hyderabad.

107th Birth Anniversary of Late Dr. Marri Channa Reddy Garu – Successfully Completed

The 107th Birth Anniversary celebrations of Late Dr. Marri Channa Reddy Garu — Visionary | Administrator | Statesman | Man of the Masses — were successfully conducted at Dr. M. Channa Reddy Memorial Rock Garden, Indira Park, Hyderabad.

The programme was held with great reverence and public participation, reflecting the enduring legacy of a leader who truly understood the pulse of the people.

🗓 Event Details

📅 Tuesday, 13 January 2026
⏰ From 9:00 AM onwards
📍 Indira Park – Lower Tank Bund Road, Hyderabad

✨ Programme Highlights

🙏 Bhajans & Floral Tributes were offered in remembrance of the great leader
🌸 Muggula (Rangoli) Competition was beautifully organized, showcasing culture, creativity, and tradition
🤝 Enthusiastic participation from citizens, volunteers, and admirers of Dr. Channa Reddy Garu
🌹 The event echoed his values of public service, leadership, and people-centric governance

The programme was jointly organized by
Dr. M. Channa Reddy Memorial Trust,
Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC),
with support from Hello Hyderabad and APSA Foundation.

🌹 A leader who lived for the people. A legacy that continues to inspire generations. 🌹

Four Sub-Registrar Office hubs to come up across Hyderabad

Four Sub-Registrar Office hubs to come up across Hyderabad

Hyderabad: Following a recent state government directive asking all departments to vacate rented premises, the Stamps and Registration Department has stepped up efforts to construct integrated Sub-Registrar Office (SRO) hubs at four locations in the city.

The proposed integrated hubs, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, will accommodate up to 11 SROs, sources said. Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for one of the four hubs in Hyderabad on Monday.

According to officials, three integrated hubs are planned within Hyderabad district, to be located at Malakpet, Banjara Hills, and Bowenpally.

The Malakpet cluster will bring together the Ajampura, Charminar, and Doodhbowli SROs. The Banjara Hills cluster will house the Banjara Hills, Golconda, and SR Nagar offices. Meanwhile, the Bowenpally cluster will integrate the Red Hills, Chikkadpally, Bowenpally, Marredpally, and Secunderabad SROs, streamlining registration services across the city.

Officials familiar with the developments said the three hubs together handle a substantial portion of the city’s property registrations and generate several hundred crores of rupees annually in stamp duty and registration revenue.

Sources added that Rangareddy district, which has witnessed the fastest growth in real estate transactions, is also set to receive four integrated SRO clusters to cater to the rising demand.

The largest integrated hub is proposed at Gachibowli, which will bring together the Rangareddy registration office and the Serilingampally, Gandipet, and Rajendranagar SROs. Officials said this cluster currently handles the highest volume of registrations in the region.

In addition, three more hubs are planned in Rangareddy district at Koheda–Sahebnagar, Mankhal, and Kothapet, integrating SROs across the eastern, southern, and central parts of the district. According to sources, these locations were chosen to distribute workload evenly and ease pressure on offices with heavy footfall.

In Medchal–Malkajgiri district, plans are underway for three integrated clusters at Kandlakoya, Mallapur, and Kukatpally. Officials noted that Kukatpally and Mallapur, in particular, witness a high volume of registrations due to dense residential and commercial development in nearby areas.

Meanwhile, Sangareddy district is proposed to have a single integrated hub at Patancheru, combining the Patancheru SRO with the Sangareddy registration office. Officials said the Patancheru belt has emerged as a major industrial and housing corridor, making it an ideal location for a high-capacity registration centre.

Grand Calendar Opening & Senior Citizens’ Gathering at Boduppal 27-Dec-2025

The Senior Citizens Meeting and Calendar Opening Program was conducted successfully in Boduppal, marked by the presence of several eminent personalities and association leaders.

The program was graced by Sri Krishna Reddy, grandson of the late Sri Marri Chenna Reddy, as the Chief Guest. Former Mayor Sri Amar Singh attended as a Special Guest, adding prestige to the occasion.

Other distinguished attendees included Sri Bandi Srinivas, Sri Jalandhar Reddy, Sri Mahesh, Sri Bhaskar Reddy (President of Chennareddy Colony Paste), Sri E. Narasimha Rao (Tasker President), Sri P. S. N. Chowdary (General Secretary), Sri Ramachandra Rao (Tasker Medchal President), Sri Bandi Sheenu, Sri Jalandhar Reddy, Sri Venkatesh (TASCA), and Sri Chiranjeevi (TASCA President, Medipally Unit).

The event was further enriched by the presence of Sri Salla Surender, Sri Mohan Rao, Sri Murali, and TERA members from the Medipally Unit.

Office bearers in attendance included Sri J. Lakshma Reddy (Vice President), Sri Narayana (General Secretary), Sri B. Mohan Reddy (Joint Secretary), and Sri K. Lakshmaiah, along with several other senior and important members.

All guests and members actively participated in the meeting, contributing to making the event a grand success.