HYDRAA removes 65-year-old tank in Sanjeeva Reddy Nagar
HYDERABAD : The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) safely demolished a defunct overhead water tank in Sanjeeva Reddy Nagar on Wednesday, removing a long-standing safety concern for residents.
Surrounded by houses and offices, the ageing structure had triggered fears during heavy rain and strong winds. Residents had expressed concern that the unused tank could collapse at any time and cause casualties. HYDRAA carried out the demolition without incident, easing public anxiety.
Sanjeeva Reddy Nagar, located along the road from Ameerpet towards Erragadda and Kukatpally, is part of a Housing Board layout. The area has seen steady residential growth along with the establishment of educational institutions.
Old tank declared unsafe after engineering inspection
The overhead water tank, built 65 years ago with a capacity of 10 lakh litres, was constructed at a height of 80 metres to supply water under pressure to thousands of households. Over time, the structure weakened.
Engineering experts from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTU) inspected the tank and submitted a report declaring it unsafe for use. It had remained defunct for nearly 15 years. The Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board decided to remove the structure.
The demolition posed challenges due to dense surroundings. Residential buildings stood within 100 yards, while offices of the water board, Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation, and Housing Board were located about 20 metres away. A transformer and a road also lay nearby, making the operation complex.
Four-hour operation completed without damage
Following a request from the water board, HYDRAA conducted a field assessment and planned the operation. The tank, supported by six pillars, required precise handling to avoid risk.
The demolition began at 6 am on Wednesday. Teams secured the structure with iron ropes and used two high-reach excavators. Given the risks, the operation proceeded cautiously and was completed within four hours, by 10 am.
Officials ensured the structure collapsed within its original footprint, preventing damage to nearby buildings. Residents and government staff in adjacent offices expressed relief after the successful operation and thanked HYDRAA for executing the demolition safely.
