Metro India News | Hyderabad 

Vehicle thefts are increasing steadily across Telangana, with 7,835 cases reported in 2024 alone—averaging nearly 21 thefts per day, or one every hour. This marks a four-year high, following 6,046 cases in 2021, 6,613 in 2022, and 6,714 in 2023. The surge reflects growing urban congestion, rising vehicle ownership, and shrinking parking space, especially in metro areas.

Two-wheelers are the most frequently stolen, with over 12,900 cases reported in recent years. Three-wheelers (760 cases), four-wheelers (450), and mobile phones (5,946) also remain common targets. Thefts often occur outside homes, banks, shopping centers, metro stations, and bars—especially where parking is unregulated or poorly lit. In many cases, vehicles are stolen overnight or within minutes of being parked.

Experts note that older two-wheelers are particularly vulnerable, as thieves can bypass locks or use generic keys. Poor parking infrastructure and predictable habits make vehicles easy targets. Even when recovered, vehicles often return in damaged or unusable condition due to delays in legal procedures.

To reduce risk, citizens are advised to park in well-lit, busy areas or attended lots, use wheel locks and replace them annually, and avoid leaving keys or valuables inside. Installing anti-theft devices like steering, clutch, or brake locks is strongly recommended. Some suggest hiding a GPS-enabled mobile phone in silent mode inside the vehicle to aid tracking if stolen. With vehicle numbers rising and urban space shrinking, thefts are expected to continue unless preventive habits and smarter infrastructure planning are prioritized.