Officials discussed aligning hostels with other commercial establishments through a licensing framework, aiming to streamline regulation and improve accountability
In an effort to strengthen safety measures in hostels, the Cyberabad Police held a high-level coordination meeting with 225 hostel owners from Madhapur and Balanagar zones on Wednesday (March 12). Key proposals included the introduction of an establishment licensing system for hostels under city police regulations, alongside maintaining updated records of residents and ensuring strict fire safety compliance.
Officials discussed aligning hostels with other commercial establishments through a licensing framework, aiming to streamline regulation and improve accountability. Additionally, plans were announced to develop a centralised platform detailing hostel facilities, availability, pricing, and amenities to assist professionals and students in making informed accommodation choices.
Cyberabad Police Commissioner Avinash Mohanty stated that the region hosts approximately 4,000 hostels, catering largely to students and working professionals from outside Telangana. “Over the last two decades, Cyberabad has emerged as a major IT hub, sustaining steady growth even during the pandemic. The city’s advanced infrastructure, well-organised traffic and high-quality hostel facilities are a preferred choice for professionals and students alike,” he said.
Addressing the gathering, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Dr. Gajarao Bhupal stressed the need for hostels to maintain clear, updated records of paying guests. Fire safety, however, stood out as a pressing concern, with HYDRAA Additional Director (Fire) revealing that nearly 75 per cent of hostels were currently non-compliant with fire safety regulations.
Mamatha, Joint Secretary of the Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC) Women Forum, highlighted ongoing efforts under the ‘Safe Stay Project’ to enhance hostel security and resident comfort. She mentioned that the SCSC has set 10 key safety guidelines and conducted surveys to assess compliance levels among hostels in the area.
The meeting underscored the importance of collaborative efforts between authorities and hostel owners to create safer, regulated accommodation environments across Cyberabad.