Hyderabad, March 5: Authorities in Hyderabad have launched an extensive lake restoration campaign aimed at protecting the city’s shrinking water bodies and improving flood management. The initiative, led by the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), seeks to restore several lakes that have been affected by encroachment, pollution, and rapid urban development.
City officials announced that the project will focus on desilting lakes, strengthening bunds, and creating buffer zones to prevent further encroachment. Environmental experts say that restoring these water bodies is crucial for maintaining Hyderabad’s ecological balance and preventing urban flooding during heavy rains.
Among the lakes included in the project are some of the city’s historically significant reservoirs that once played a key role in water supply and groundwater recharge. Over the past two decades, however, many lakes have been reduced in size due to unplanned construction and waste dumping.
Municipal officials said the restoration effort will involve the removal of debris, installation of sewage treatment facilities, and development of green spaces around lake perimeters. The plan also includes the construction of walking tracks and recreational areas, allowing residents to use the spaces while ensuring environmental protection.
Environmental groups have welcomed the initiative but stressed that strict enforcement will be necessary to prevent future encroachments. Activists have long raised concerns about shrinking lake areas and the loss of natural drainage channels that help absorb rainwater.
The project also aligns with the state government’s broader environmental agenda under the leadership of A. Revanth Reddy. Officials say restoring lakes will help improve groundwater levels and reduce the risk of flooding in nearby neighborhoods during the monsoon season.
Residents living near several lakes have expressed optimism about the project. Many say the water bodies have deteriorated significantly over the years due to pollution and lack of maintenance. Reviving them could improve local air quality and provide green recreational spaces.
Urban planners note that Hyderabad once had more than 700 lakes, many built during earlier dynasties to manage water resources. Today, only a fraction remain in healthy condition.
Authorities plan to carry out the restoration work in phases over the next three years. If implemented effectively, experts believe the initiative could serve as a model for sustainable urban water management in rapidly growing Indian cities.
News as reported
