HYDRAA restores four Hyderabad lakes with ₹107 crore
HYDERABAD: The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) on Thursday launched restoration works on four more lakes in and around Hyderabad at an estimated cost of ₹107 crore, as part of its initiative to improve flood management and groundwater recharge. The projects were inaugurated by HYDRAA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath, who performed the customary ground-breaking rituals at Ibrahim Pedda Cheruvu and Kamuni Cheruvu.
The four lakes selected for restoration are Ibrahim Pedda Cheruvu at Ibrahim Bagh in Rajendranagar mandal of Rangareddy district, Bhagirathamma Cheruvu at Puppalguda in Gandipet mandal, Kamuni Cheruvu at Moosapet in Kukatpally mandal, and Kapra Lake in Kapra of Medchal-Malkajgiri district.
Residents who attended the programme thanked HYDRAA and the state government for taking up the restoration works. They said the projects would help address sewage-related issues, reduce mosquito breeding and improve the surrounding environment.
Four lakes to be developed over 311 acres
The restoration covers 48 acres at Kamuni Cheruvu, 97 acres at Ibrahim Pedda Cheruvu, 54 acres at Bhagirathamma Cheruvu and 112 acres at Kapra Lake, taking the total area under development to 311 acres. The four projects together have been sanctioned at ₹107 crore.
Commissioner stresses quality and public participation
Ranganath directed contractors to completely remove silt from the lakes and eliminate foul odour during the restoration process. He said the works should strengthen flood mitigation, improve groundwater recharge and create an environmentally sustainable ecosystem.
He instructed officials to develop proper inlets and outlets to ensure smooth inflow and outflow of floodwater. He also asked contractors to execute the second-phase restoration of 14 lakes to the same standards as the six lakes developed in the first phase, without compromising on quality.
The commissioner said the restored lakes should include walking paths, open gyms and children’s play areas so they serve as public recreational spaces. He added that the government is planning to introduce boating facilities at larger lakes through the Tourism Department. He also urged local residents to actively support and monitor the development works.
