STP delays may re-pollute restored lakes, warns HYDRAA chief
HYDERABAD: HYDRAA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath on Friday warned that recently restored lakes in the city could face renewed pollution if Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) are not completed on time.
He said lake rejuvenation must go hand in hand with sewage management to ensure sustainable outcomes. The remarks were made during an inspection of Ibrahim Bagh Lake in Rajendranagar mandal, where restoration is under way in the second phase covering 14 lakes.
No compromise on desilting, says Commissioner
Ranganath reviewed the progress and directed officials to carry out works without compromise. He stressed that complete desilting of the lake bed is essential to remove foul odour and improve groundwater levels in surrounding areas. He asked officials to ensure no residual sludge remains.
Officials informed that STPs with a total capacity of 56 million litres per day (MLD) are being constructed. Ranganath said treated water must pass through sedimentation ponds before entering the main lake to improve quality.
He cautioned that any delay in completing the STPs could result in untreated sewage flowing back into the lake, reversing restoration gains.
Scientific design of inflows and outflows emphasised
The Commissioner instructed officials to adopt scientific methods in designing inlet and outlet systems. These should allow only floodwater during heavy rains while diverting sewage under normal conditions.
Spread over nearly 100 acres, the lake has had encroachments within its Full Tank Level (FTL) limits cleared. Ranganath directed that reclaimed land be integrated into development plans, including walkways and recreational spaces.
The lake receives inflows from a catchment area of 29.53 sq km and discharges excess water into the Musi River. Officials said maintaining this natural flow is vital for flood control and water management.
Visit to Kudikunta Lake, NGO efforts acknowledged
Earlier, the Commissioner visited Kudikunta Lake in Kondapur, developed with support from non-governmental organisations. NGO representative Kalpana Ramesh requested protection of additional land within the lake boundary for further development.
Ranganath said the request would be examined and appreciated community efforts in lake conservation.
Reiterating his message, he said restoration and sewage infrastructure must progress simultaneously to prevent lakes from slipping back into pollution.
