HYDRAA Chief Ranganath Clarifies the Causes Behind Hyderabad’s Real Estate Slump

HYDRAA (Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency) Commissioner Ranganath has firmly rejected allegations that the agency’s actions under the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) have led to the recent slowdown in Hyderabad’s real estate market. Responding to ongoing criticism, he clarified that the causes of the market stagnation are rooted in broader economic factors rather than regulatory interventions by HYDRAA.

Ranganath explained that Hyderabad’s real estate sector is currently facing an imbalance, with supply significantly outpacing demand. A large volume of completed yet unsold residential projects has accumulated, which he said is exerting downward pressure on the market. He also noted a marked decline in investments and remittances from Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), particularly from countries such as the United States. Additionally, rising interest rates and growing concerns about potential job losses due to artificial intelligence (AI) advancements have dampened consumer confidence and reduced purchasing power.

“Blaming HYDRAA for every challenge in the real estate market has turned into a blame game,” Ranganath observed. “Our operations are confined to Hyderabad. If our actions were the cause, why is the real estate market slowing down in cities like Khammam and Warangal as well? That question needs to be asked,” he remarked.

The Commissioner emphasized that real estate development should not be judged solely by escalating prices—whether ₹10,000 or ₹15,000 per square foot—but by its ability to make homeownership accessible to ordinary citizens and the middle class. “True progress in the real estate sector is achieved only when every individual has the opportunity to own a home,” he said.

Reflecting on his earlier experience, Ranganath recalled that during the investigation of the Pranay honor killing case, linked to the inter-caste marriage of Amrutha and Pranay, he faced similar accusations on social media. He stated that despite such pressures, he had always adhered to his professional principles. “If one remains committed to duty and does not succumb to external pressure, the truth will eventually reveal itself,” he concluded.