Three Hyderabad lake restoration projects near completion, one set for CM launch

The Hyderabad Disaster Response & Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) is close to completing developmental works on three lakes across the city, marking significant progress in its urban water-body restoration drive.

Sunnam Cheruvu

The Sunnam Cheruvu lake at Guttala Begumpet, near Ayyappa Society, is ready for inauguration, likely by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, before the end of September. HYDRAA officials said the water body, which had shrunk to a 13-acre sewage and garbage dump with the rest encroached, has now been restored to its original 30-acre extent.

During restoration, earlier attempts to extract groundwater from the lake bed for supply to hostels, schools and colleges were thwarted after tests revealed high concentrations of heavy metals. HYDRAA has developed inlets and outlets, beautified the surroundings, and added a viewpoint over natural rock formations. The agency said it overcame several legal hurdles to complete the project, and the lake is already drawing thousands of visitors for walking and recreation.

Nalla Cheruvu

In Uppal, Nalla Cheruvu is expected to open to the public within two months. The lake had been reduced to 52.3 acres due to severe encroachments and had become a receptacle for sewage and industrial effluents. HYDRAA has removed encroachments, expanding the lake to 67.31 acres. Work includes strengthening the bund, developing inlet and outlet channels, and creating a 2.4-kilometre walking track around the water body.

Thammidikunta

At the 30-acre Thammidikunta lake, where HYDRAA had partially demolished the N-Convention two years ago, restoration is underway. The agency said large quantities of bio-waste and sewage water have been removed. Orders have also been issued to relocate plastic waste segregation units operating nearby.

HYDRAA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath inspected Sunnam Cheruvu and Thammidikunta on Saturday to review progress.