Tag: Telangana News

Telangana Prepares to Ensure Uninterrupted Drinking Water Supply in Hyderabad Amid El Niño Concerns

Hyderabad, October 13, 2026: The Telangana government has stepped up measures to ensure an uninterrupted drinking water supply across Hyderabad in anticipation of the potential impact of El Niño. Chief Secretary Sanjay Jaju has directed officials to optimise available water resources and take preventive measures to avoid inconvenience to residents.

The Chief Secretary chaired a review meeting on Tuesday to assess drinking water supply preparedness across the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), Malkajgiri Municipal Corporation (MMC) and Cyberabad Municipal Corporation (CMC) areas.

He appealed to citizens to conserve water and cooperate with the government’s efforts to manage the city’s water requirements.

Hyderabad Plans Additional 60 MGD Water Supply

Officials informed the meeting that Hyderabad’s drinking water supply primarily depends on Osman Sagar, Himayat Sagar, Manjeera, Krishna and Godavari water sources, with approximately 560 million gallons per day (MGD) available from these sources.

To meet the city’s requirements, authorities have drawn up a plan to arrange an additional 60 MGD of water through supplementary sources and supply arrangements.

The Chief Secretary emphasised the need to utilise available resources efficiently, particularly if reservoir levels decline due to El Niño-related conditions.

Groundwater Decline Increases Water Tanker Demand

Sanjay Jaju observed that groundwater levels in Hyderabad had fallen significantly over the previous two to three months compared with the same period last year, leading to increased demand for water tankers.

Hyderabad Metro Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) officials said special green tankers were being arranged to supply treated wastewater for suitable non-drinking purposes.

The initiative is intended to reduce the use of drinking water for activities that can be carried out using treated wastewater.

Alternative Water Sources for Four Districts

The government is also preparing alternative arrangements for Medak, Nizamabad, Kamareddy and Sangareddy districts, which depend on the Manjeera and Singur reservoirs.

Officials have already identified borewells and other alternative water sources in the respective districts. The Chief Secretary assured officials that drinking water supply remains a top government priority and that adequate funds would be made available for the necessary measures.

Water Conservation Could Save 80 MGD Daily

Highlighting the importance of public participation, Sanjay Jaju said that conserving just 20 per cent of water across the three municipal corporations could save approximately 80 MGD every day.

He directed officials to take strict action to prevent water wastage, particularly the use of HMWSSB-supplied drinking water for washing vehicles.

The authorities have also been instructed to launch an extensive 60-day public awareness campaign focusing on water conservation and responsible water use. Film stars, celebrities and other prominent personalities will be encouraged to participate in the campaign to increase public awareness.

Chief Secretary Appeals to Citizens to Save Water

Urging residents to recognise the value of every drop, Sanjay Jaju called for collective action to address potential water supply challenges associated with El Niño.

The government is focusing on efficient water management, alternative supply arrangements and public cooperation to help maintain a reliable drinking water supply across Greater Hyderabad.

Residents are encouraged to avoid unnecessary water use, prevent leakage and wastage, and use treated wastewater wherever appropriate for non-drinking purposes.

Hyderabad and Japan’s Miyoshi Renew Sister City Partnership

Hyderabad, October 13, 2026: Hyderabad and Miyoshi, a city in Japan’s Hiroshima Prefecture, have renewed their sister city partnership to strengthen cooperation in skill mobility, tourism, culture and sports. The renewed declaration reaffirms the relationship established on July 27, 2006, and aims to deepen ties between the two regions.

The declaration was signed on October 13 by Jayesh Ranjan, IAS, Special Officer for the Greater Hyderabad, Cyberabad and Malkajgiri Municipal Corporations, and Satoshi Fukuoka, Mayor of Miyoshi. The three municipal corporations are collaborating under the Hyderabad Metropolitan Area (HMA).

The signing ceremony was attended by GHMC Commissioner R.V. Karnan, CMC Commissioner Srijana, MMC Commissioner Vinay Krishna Reddy and GHMC Additional Commissioner (Finance) Radhika Gupta.

Representatives of the Hiroshima Prefectural Government also participated in the event, including Vice Governor Toru Youhimatsu, Kazuo Ichikawa, Hiroyoshi Funaishi and Yoshihiro Harazono.

Focus on Skills, Tourism and Cultural Exchange

Under the renewed declaration, Hyderabad Metropolitan Area and Miyoshi will prioritise skill mobility and cooperation in tourism, culture and sports. Both sides will identify and develop specific projects through consultation and mutual agreement.

The two regions will review their priority areas and activities every five years. Any changes to the agreed framework will be documented through a written addendum.

The original sister city declaration signed in 2006 will remain in force. However, the renewed declaration will take precedence in cases where the provisions of the two agreements differ.

Strengthening Hyderabad–Japan Relations

The partnership aims to promote industrial, economic, educational and cultural development in both regions. It also seeks to encourage people-to-people exchanges and create opportunities for collaboration between Hyderabad and Miyoshi.

The renewal marks an important step in continuing the two cities’ long-standing relationship and strengthening cooperation between India and Japan across multiple sectors.

IndiGo Delhi–Chennai Flight Diverted to Hyderabad After Smoke Detected From Electronic Device

Hyderabad: An IndiGo flight operating from Delhi to Chennai was diverted to Hyderabad on October 11, 2026, after smoke was detected coming from a passenger’s personal electronic device. The aircraft landed safely at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad, following the prompt response of the cabin crew.

According to IndiGo, flight 6E 6115 was diverted as a precaution after smoke was detected inside the aircraft. The cabin crew acted swiftly to bring the situation under control, ensuring the safety of passengers and crew members.

Flight Lands Safely at Hyderabad Airport

Following the incident, the aircraft was diverted to Hyderabad, where it made a safe landing. IndiGo said arrangements were being made for an alternative aircraft to transport passengers to Chennai and minimise further inconvenience.

The airline also apologised to passengers for the unexpected disruption. It stated that refreshments were being offered and timely updates were being shared while efforts continued to help passengers complete their journey.

Videos circulating on social media purportedly showed smoke and a small fire near an overhead luggage compartment. The incident reportedly caused concern among passengers, with some getting out of their seats and attempting to move their belongings away from the smoke.

Previous Power Bank Fire Incident on Hyderabad Flight

The latest incident has once again highlighted the potential risks associated with personal electronic devices on aircraft.

In a similar incident in May, a power bank reportedly caught fire aboard an IndiGo flight travelling from Hyderabad to Chandigarh. The incident occurred after the aircraft landed and was taxiing, prompting an emergency evacuation.

According to the airline, the cabin crew used a fire extinguisher to contain the fire. However, smoke spread through the cabin, and passengers and crew members were evacuated as a precaution. The incident raised concerns about the safety risks posed by lithium-ion batteries carried by passengers.

IndiGo Guidelines for Carrying Power Banks

Airlines follow strict safety guidelines for carrying electronic devices and batteries on flights because damaged or overheated lithium-ion batteries can pose a fire risk.

Passengers should keep the following precautions in mind:

Avoid placing power banks in checked-in baggage: Spare lithium batteries and power banks are subject to restrictions and should be carried in cabin baggage in accordance with airline rules.
Keep power banks accessible: IndiGo guidelines state that power banks must remain within the passenger’s personal reach, such as under the seat, in the seat pocket or on their person, subject to applicable instructions.
Follow airline instructions: Passengers should check the latest airline rules regarding the use, storage and charging of power banks during a flight.
Report smoke or overheating immediately: Any unusual smell, excessive heat or smoke from an electronic device should be reported to the cabin crew without delay.

Aviation Safety Remains a Priority

The diversion of the Delhi–Chennai flight to Hyderabad highlights the importance of swift action by cabin crew and strict adherence to aviation safety procedures. Although the aircraft landed safely, the incident serves as a reminder that even small personal electronic devices can create serious safety concerns when batteries malfunction.

Passengers are advised to follow airline safety instructions carefully and handle electronic devices responsibly throughout their journey.

Hyderabad Techie’s Reunite India Website Helps Track 665 Missing Persons After Nepal Floods

Hyderabad: In a remarkable example of technology serving humanity, Hyderabad-based software expert Arfath Mohammad has developed an AI-assisted platform, ReuniteIndia.com, to help families trace missing loved ones. Following the devastating Nepal floods in February 2026, the website has listed 665 individuals reported missing, safe or located, offering hope to families searching for information about their relatives.

From a Personal Experience to a Humanitarian Mission

The idea behind Reunite India originated from a distressing incident involving one of Mohammad’s close friends. The family had struggled to find their father, who was living with dementia and had wandered away from home. Witnessing their difficulties inspired Mohammad to create a digital platform that could help people locate missing family members.

Years later, the website is helping families affected by the Nepal floods by bringing together scattered information from multiple sources into one accessible platform.

Mohammad, a senior solutions architect and programming language expert, designed and developed the website himself.

AI Technology Helps Track Missing Persons

ReuniteIndia.com uses an AI-assisted system to collect and organise information from official sources, including India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Nepal Police and Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA).

According to the reported figures, the platform has listed 665 individuals, with approximately 477 identified as located or safe through the information gathered. Families can also submit missing-person cases directly through the website.

To maintain accuracy, Mohammad personally verifies every entry before publishing it. The platform also analyses updates from disaster management authorities and relevant social media posts, helping families access information that might otherwise remain scattered across different sources and languages.

The website can also help users identify nearby hospitals and police stations based on a missing person’s last-known location. It provides guidance to people who need assistance filing a missing-person report.

QR Codes Bring Real-Time Updates to Missing-Person Posters

One of the platform’s key features is its QR-code system, which helps families access updated information about missing individuals.

Traditional missing-person posters can quickly become outdated when new information becomes available. Reunite India’s QR-linked posters allow people to scan a code and view the latest available updates online, even if the poster was printed weeks earlier.

This feature makes it easier for people sharing or viewing missing-person information to check for developments without needing a new poster every time a person’s status changes.

Safety Profiles for Children, Senior Citizens and Vulnerable People

Beyond disaster response, Reunite India offers a safety-profile feature designed for people who may be at greater risk of becoming separated from their families.

Families can create a safety profile for children, senior citizens, people living with dementia and persons with disabilities. The website then generates a QR code that can be printed on a safety bracelet, wallet card or identification tag.

If the person gets lost, someone who finds them can scan the code to access the available safety information and help reconnect them with their family.

A Platform for Emergencies Beyond Floods

Mohammad says Reunite India was designed to support a wide range of missing-person situations, rather than being limited to a single disaster.

From children who wander away from home to senior citizens with dementia and individuals missing during floods or other emergencies, the platform aims to provide families with a central place to share information and search for updates.

The website also has the capability to track missing or stolen vehicles, potentially extending its usefulness beyond personal safety and disaster relief.

Hyderabad Techie Plans QR-Linked Safety Products

As the platform develops, Mohammad plans to introduce physical products connected to its digital safety features. Trial offerings include QR-linked safety bracelets, wallet identification cards and iron-on clothing labels.

These products are intended to make safety information more accessible when vulnerable individuals are away from home. The QR-linked information can be updated online without having to replace the physical item every time details change.

Mohammad also hopes to collaborate with state and central government agencies to expand the platform’s reach and explore how the technology could support missing-person searches and emergency response efforts.

Technology with a Human Purpose

Reunite India’s journey demonstrates how a personal experience can inspire a solution with wider social impact. By combining AI-assisted information gathering, manual verification and QR-based identification, the Hyderabad-developed platform aims to help families navigate the uncertainty of missing-person cases.

As natural disasters and other emergencies separate families, accessible digital tools like Reunite India could offer an additional way to share verified information and support efforts to reunite loved ones.

Mega Clean-Up Drive at Mushkin Lake Collects Over 100 Kg of Waste

HYDERABAD: A major clean-up drive at Mushkin Lake in Narsingi brought together environmentalists, volunteers and civic officials on Sunday, October 4, as part of the Gandhi Jayanti weekend. The initiative resulted in the collection of more than 100 kg of solid waste from the lake and its surrounding areas.

The clean-up drive saw the participation of officials from HYDRAA, Cyberabad Municipal Corporation and HMDA, along with local volunteers and environmental groups. The collective effort focused on removing accumulated waste and drawing attention to the importance of protecting Hyderabad’s lakes and natural water bodies.

Clean Lake Programme Focuses on Ecological Conservation

The initiative was conducted under the Clean Lake Programme, inspired by the Swachh Bharat Mission. Organisers said the programme aims to restore the ecological health of lakes, protect local biodiversity and encourage communities to take an active role in environmental conservation.

The drive began at 7 am at Mushkin Lake, with volunteers working across the lake and nearby areas to remove solid waste. More than 100 kg of waste was collected during the campaign, highlighting the need for regular maintenance and responsible waste disposal around water bodies.

Residents Call for Greater Protection of Lakes

Goutham Krishna Reddy, a local resident, said the initiative was aimed at reminding people that lakes are important not only for the environment but also for local water resources and the future of the city.

The organisers also appealed to residents to contribute to keeping Mushkin Lake clean, stressing that protecting natural water bodies requires continuous community participation.

“Let us keep our Mushkin Lake clean! Let us serve nature!” the organisers said.

Community Participation Key to Sustainable Future

The campaign highlighted several benefits of maintaining clean lakes, including better water quality, healthier ecosystems, biodiversity conservation and stronger community involvement.

After the drive, organisers thanked members of the Mushkin Lake Protection Committee, environmental volunteers and Narsingi Circle staff for their support and cooperation.

The initiative reinforced a simple message: clean lakes need collective responsibility. With Hyderabad continuing to grow rapidly, protecting its lakes and water resources will remain essential for a healthier and more sustainable future.

More than 100 kg of waste was collected during a mega clean-up drive at Mushkin Lake, Narsingi. Volunteers, environmentalists and civic officials joined hands to protect the lake, conserve biodiversity and promote a cleaner Hyderabad.

HPS Felicitates Alumnus Prem Watsa During School Visit

Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Public School (HPS) felicitated distinguished alumnus Prem Watsa, Chairman of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited and a member of the HPS Class of 1965, during his visit to the institution.

The felicitation celebrated Watsa’s longstanding association with his alma mater and his continued support for the school. The occasion also marked the foundation stone ceremony for a new Junior School Block, which will be named in honour of his father, M.C. Watsa, who served as Principal of The Hyderabad Public School from 1969 to 1972.

Gusti J. Noria, President of The Hyderabad Public School Society, said the institution was proud to welcome back Watsa, whose journey from the school’s classrooms to global leadership reflects the values and spirit of HPS.

Speaking on the occasion, Prem Watsa said returning to The Hyderabad Public School was always special for him. He recalled that his years at HPS played an important role in shaping his life and added that the school has continued to remain an important part of his journey.

The naming of the new Junior School Block after M.C. Watsa also highlights the enduring connection between the Watsa family and The Hyderabad Public School. The new facility is expected to further strengthen the school’s infrastructure and support its future generations of students. :::

Balapur Ganesh Laddu Fetches Record Rs 39 Lakh in Auction

Hyderabad: The famous Balapur Ganesh laddu auction 2026 has created a new record, with the 21-kg laddu fetching Rs 39 lakh in an open auction held on Friday, September 25.

City-based entrepreneur S. Praneet Reddy emerged as the successful bidder for the iconic Balapur Ganesh laddu. The auction was held in Balapur, on the southern outskirts of Hyderabad, before the traditional Ganesh immersion procession.

Balapur Ganesh Laddu Sold for Rs 39 Lakh

The Balapur Ganesh laddu auction attracted eight bidders this year. The annual auction is one of the most popular traditions associated with Hyderabad’s Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

Devotees and bidders believe that the Balapur laddu brings prosperity and good fortune to the person who wins the auction. The winner traditionally shares pieces of the laddu with family and friends and also distributes or preserves portions of it at homes, businesses and agricultural fields.

Balapur Laddu Auction Price Rises Every Year

The Balapur laddu auction has witnessed a significant rise in its price over the years. The tradition began in 1994, when the laddu was sold for just Rs 450.

Kolanu Mohan Reddy won the first auction in 1994 and reportedly remained the successful bidder for five consecutive years. His claims of prosperity after winning the auction helped increase the popularity of the Balapur Ganesh laddu.

Since then, the auction has become an important part of the Ganesh Chaturthi festivities in Hyderabad.

Previous Balapur Ganesh Laddu Auction Records

The Balapur Ganesh laddu has continued to attract high bids in recent years.

1994: Rs 450
2024: Rs 30.01 lakh
2025: Rs 35 lakh
2026: Rs 39 lakh

The latest Rs 39 lakh Balapur laddu auction has set a new record.

Balapur Ganesh Immersion Procession

The annual laddu auction marks the beginning of the traditional Ganesh immersion procession from Balapur. The procession passes through several parts of Hyderabad before reaching Hussain Sagar Lake.

The Balapur Ganesh celebrations have a history of around 45 years, while the laddu auction tradition has continued since 1994.

History of the Balapur Ganesh Laddu Auction

For the first 15 years, the auction was restricted to local residents. The organisers later opened the auction to people from other areas, increasing participation and the popularity of the tradition.

According to the Balapur Ganesh Utsav Samithi, the auction has been conducted 31 times so far. The auction was not held in 2020 because of the COVID-19 situation. During that year, the organisers presented the laddu to then Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao.

Why Is the Balapur Laddu So Popular?

The Balapur Ganesh laddu has gained popularity because of the belief that it brings prosperity and good fortune. Businessmen and other participants have traditionally competed to win the auction.

The laddu is not only considered a religious offering but has also become an important symbol of Hyderabad’s Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

With Rs 39 lakh, the 2026 Balapur Ganesh laddu auction has once again highlighted the unique tradition and growing popularity of the famous Hyderabad Ganesh festival.

Hyderabad gears up for massive Ganesh immersion with 20,000 police personnel

Hyderabad is set for the final Ganesh idol immersion procession, with authorities deploying a large-scale security and crowd-management operation across the city.

Nearly 20,000 police personnel, more than 10,000 CCTV cameras and 24 drones will be used to monitor the procession and manage the movement of lakhs of devotees and thousands of idols arriving from Hyderabad, Cyberabad, Malkajgiri, Future City and neighbouring districts.

The Khairatabad Ganesh idol has already drawn around 25 lakh visitors, while nearly 15 lakh devotees have visited the Balapur Ganesh idol. Security has been strengthened at both locations ahead of the final immersion.

Preparations for the event began nearly three months ago. Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar held coordination meetings with government departments, festival organisers, idol makers and peace committees to streamline arrangements.

Police said 15,426 applications were received through the online Ganesh pandal permission system, with 14,929 permissions granted following physical verification. Approved pandals have been geo-tagged, while safety instructions covering fire and electrical risks have been displayed in bilingual posters.

By Wednesday, 32,878 idols had been immersed across Hyderabad and surrounding areas, including 6,108 within Hyderabad city limits.

The city’s surveillance network has been linked to the Telangana State Police Integrated Command and Control Centre (TGICCC) in Banjara Hills. In addition to the CCTV network, nearly 100 high-rise cameras will monitor crowd density and movement along key procession routes.

Police teams equipped with binoculars and wireless communication devices have been stationed on rooftops. Round-the-clock control rooms have been established at NTR Marg, People’s Plaza, Necklace Road and Moghalpura Sports Complex, with senior officials coordinating operations.

Emergency-response arrangements include rescue boats and expert divers from the Indian Army and Tourism Department at major water bodies. Ambulances, paramedical teams, fire tenders, generators and watchtowers have also been positioned at strategic locations. Mechanics and backup drivers will be available at key junctions to address vehicle breakdowns.

The police deployment includes personnel from the Law and Order, Traffic, Task Force, Special Branch, City Security Wing and City Armed Reserve units. An additional 8,142 personnel from other districts, organised into 42 platoons, have been assigned to seven security zones.

Four companies of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) have been deployed in Charminar, Golconda, Rajendranagar and Shamshabad, while two companies of the Central Armed Reserve Force (CRPF) are stationed in Khairatabad and Secunderabad.

Security checks are also being carried out by 53 bomb detection teams at procession routes, entry points, railway stations, bus terminals and shopping malls.

Authorities have prohibited DJ systems, sound mixers, high-decibel audio equipment and firecrackers during the procession in accordance with Supreme Court guidelines on noise pollution and public health. Police warned that violations could result in seizure of equipment and legal action.

Aadab Hyderabad Completes 15 Years, Grand Anniversary Celebrations at Ravindra Bharathi

Hyderabad: Telugu daily Aadab Hyderabad marked the completion of 15 years of its journalistic journey with grand anniversary celebrations at Ravindra Bharathi, Hyderabad.

The day-long event brought together ministers, MPs, MLAs, MLCs, political leaders, senior police officials, journalists, artists, academicians, entrepreneurs, advertisers, readers and well-wishers.

Telangana Minister Ponnam Prabhakar congratulated Aadab Hyderabad on completing 15 years and appreciated its efforts to highlight public issues and take information about government welfare programmes closer to the people.

Telangana BJP President N. Ramchander Rao praised the newspaper’s straightforward and impartial approach to journalism, while BJP MP Dr. K. Laxman appreciated its role in raising public concerns and providing a platform for people’s voices.

Government Adviser K. Keshava Rao highlighted the challenges involved in sustaining a newspaper for 15 years and congratulated the management, journalists and employees. Vakulabharanam Krishna Mohan Rao also appreciated the publication’s distinctive identity and the commitment of its journalists.

Kalvakuntla Kavitha emphasised the importance of regional and smaller newspapers in highlighting grassroots issues and called for greater support and welfare measures for journalists.

Hyderabad City Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar, who attended as chief guest, congratulated Aadab Hyderabad and appreciated its efforts to highlight public concerns and promote impartial journalism.

“Our Word – A Weapon Against Corruption”

Addressing the gathering, Aadab Hyderabad Chairman and Managing Director Satyam Veeramalla described the 15th anniversary as an emotional and significant milestone.

Reaffirming the newspaper’s philosophy, he said Aadab Hyderabad would continue to raise public issues, question wrongdoing and bring the grievances of ordinary citizens into public discourse without compromising on its principles.

The celebrations also featured traditional dances, cultural programmes, theatre performances and felicitation ceremonies, adding colour to the grand occasion.

The management thanked its readers, journalists, employees, advertisers, agents, supporters and well-wishers for their contribution to the newspaper’s 15-year journey.

With 15 years completed, Aadab Hyderabad now enters the next phase of its journey with renewed responsibility and determination, promising to further strengthen its role in Telugu journalism and continue giving voice to issues of public importance.

Aadab Hyderabad – 15 Years of Journalism, Public Issues and People’s Voice.

Bonalu 2026 Begins at Secunderabad Ujjaini Mahankali Temple; AI Surveillance & Tight Security in Place

The vibrant Bonalu Festival 2026 commenced at the historic Sri Ujjaini Mahankali Temple in Secunderabad, drawing thousands of devotees from Hyderabad and surrounding districts from the early hours of the morning.

Women dressed in traditional pattu sarees carried beautifully decorated Bonam offerings filled with cooked rice and jaggery as a mark of gratitude and devotion to Goddess Mahankali. The temple and surrounding streets were adorned with colorful flowers and LED lights, creating a festive atmosphere across the area.

To ensure the smooth conduct of the festival, Hyderabad Police deployed over 2,500 personnel and implemented extensive security and traffic arrangements. Hyderabad Police Commissioner V. C. Sajjanar reviewed the security measures and announced that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being used to monitor suspicious activities and identify pickpockets in real time.

Additional SHE Teams have also been deployed to ensure the safety of women devotees, while barricades and traffic diversions have been put in place to regulate the large crowds and maintain smooth traffic flow.

The combination of traditional devotion and modern technology is helping ensure that one of Telangana’s most celebrated festivals is conducted safely and peacefully.