HYDRAA revives Nizam-era Bum Rukn-ud-Daula Lake
HYDERABAD: The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has revived a historic Nizam-era lake in the Old City after clearing encroachments and restoring its original character.
The Bum Rukn-ud-Daula Lake, which had nearly disappeared due to decades of illegal occupation, is being redeveloped as a public recreational space. With preparations underway to open the lake in January, HYDRAA commissioner A V Ranganath inspected the development works on Saturday.
Addressing officials at the site, Ranganath said the project aimed to bring back a part of history believed to have been lost. He directed officials to exercise caution and ensure quality in all construction activities.
The commissioner reviewed access roads and entry points to ensure easy public access. He inspected walking tracks on the bund, fencing works inside the lake, and children’s play areas being developed on both sides. He also instructed that gazebos be constructed around the lake for senior citizens. Parks and open gyms planned as part of the project were also reviewed.
Lake to be developed as recreational hub
Ranganath said the lake, located near the National Police Academy in the Old City, should be developed as a full-fledged recreational destination at a time when urban spaces are rapidly turning into concrete zones.
He suggested planting medicinal tree species and other saplings around the lake and developing green parks with lawns to create a pleasant environment. He said the greenery should help residents experience a noticeable difference in surrounding temperatures.
The commissioner instructed officials to strengthen structures using stone similar to that used during the Nizam era. He reviewed the construction of wide inlets and outlets and directed that rainwater from areas such as Rajendranagar and Aramghar — spread across nearly 10 km — should be channelled into the lake to help mitigate flooding in the region.
CCTV cameras are also being installed to strengthen surveillance.
History of Bum Rukn-ud-Daula Lake
Historical records state that the lake was built in 1970 during the reign of the third Nizam, Sikander Jah, by the then prime minister Nawab Rukn-ud-Daula, from whom the lake derives its name.
The lake originally spread across 104 acres and was built to meet drinking water needs. Over the years, its extent shrank significantly. The Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority later demarcated the lake as 17.05 acres, which eventually reduced to just 4.12 acres.
HYDRAA removed encroachments in August last year and reclaimed the entire extent as per HMDA records. The agency faced resistance and criticism during the eviction drive, but the completed development has now drawn appreciation from local residents.
Residents said they never imagined the area could be restored so well and thanked HYDRAA for bringing back the lake.
Local accounts recall rich heritage
Elderly residents recalled that the lake earlier received floodwater from Rajendranagar, Aramghar and Katedan areas. They said that during the Nizam period, rulers used Mir Alam Tank, while queens bathed in Bum Rukn-ud-Daula Lake.
Some residents said medicinal tree branches were once placed in the lake, and seepage water collected in a well below was used by Nizam rulers for drinking due to its medicinal properties.
Others recalled that fragrant flowering plants surrounded the lake and that as flowers fell into the water, it was used to make perfume, which was exported to Arab countries.
Residents said it was heartening to see such a historically significant lake finally restored.
