Gachibowli Building Collapse Kills Two Workers, Sparking Citywide Alarm Over Illegal Floors

The collapse of an unauthorised seven-storey building in Anjaiahnagar, Gachibowli, on Saturday left two workers dead, sparking widespread alarm over the proliferation of illegal multi-storey constructions across Hyderabad.

Following the fatal incident, officials from HYDRAA and municipal staff have begun identifying unsafe structures in areas near the collapse site, while local residents have intensified demands for immediate regulatory enforcement.

Concerns over structural safety are not confined to Gachibowli. Residents across Hyderabad have pointed out numerous unauthorized multi-storey structures in older, densely populated neighbourhoods. In Hanuman Tekdi, a G+4 building was reportedly constructed on a plot measuring just 85 square yards. According to neighbours, permission was never granted for four floors, yet the structure was completed and placed up for sale. Similarly, a four-floor building has been constructed on a narrow parcel of land at Nimboliadda.

Citizens report that such building violations remain widespread in busy localities such as Ameerpet and Punjagutta. Many multi-floor structures have been squeezed tightly between existing homes, leaving little open space and creating safety hazards along narrow approach roads. The problem is particularly acute in central and older parts of the city, where high land values and small plot sizes drive property owners to maximise built-up area well beyond permitted limits.

Community members noted that many of these unauthorised properties are quickly converted into commercial ventures. In several parts of Ameerpet, illegal multi-storey structures are actively being used to operate hostels and businesses.

“In several areas of Ameerpet, illegal floored buildings can be observed. Many run hostels and commercial establishments from these structures, showing little respect for rules. At least now, municipal staff should wake up and take action,” said Malleshwara Reddy, a local resident in Ameerpet.

With inspections now underway in the vicinity of the Anjaiahnagar site, residents across the city are urging civic authorities to address structural violations before further mishaps occur.