To combat encroachments on water bodies, the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Monitoring and Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has requested the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) to stop issuing property assessment numbers for constructions in lake Full Tank Levels (FTL) and buffer zones. HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath emphasized the need to halt property assessments and construction permits in these areas and has also sought the denial of electricity and water connections for illegal structures. Restoration efforts are underway, with model lakes being developed to showcase how clearing obstructions can enhance water flow and storage. This initiative aims to set a precedent for water conservation and sustainable urban planning in Hyderabad.
To combat encroachments on water bodies, the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Monitoring and Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has requested the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) to stop issuing property assessment numbers for constructions in Full Tank Level (FTL) and buffer zones around lakes.
HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath stated that encroachers have been constructing buildings on lake Full Tank Levels (FTLs) and urged the Hyderabad civic body to cease property assessments in these areas. He mentioned that GHMC has been asked to stop issuing property assessment numbers, and the town planning department has been requested to suspend granting construction permits in the lake regions.
HYDRAA also plans to request the Telangana Southern Power Distribution Company Ltd (TGSPDCL) to deny electricity connections to buildings located on lakes, FTLs, and buffer zones, particularly if they lack property assessment numbers. Similarly, the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWS&SB) has been asked not to provide water connections to these illegal constructions.
Ranganath clarified that in buffer zones, only agricultural activities are allowed for individuals with legal pattas, and no permanent structures may be constructed in these areas. To serve as an example, HYDRAA has initiated a project to restore two model lakes by removing obstructions from nalas (drains) to enhance water flow. He explained that they are developing Thammidikunta, where the N-Convention building was demolished, and another lake upstream to showcase how restoration can be accomplished by clearing nalas. This effort is intended to set a precedent for similar projects throughout the city.
He emphasised the significance of lake restoration, noting that expanding lake capacity could store millions of litres of water, far exceeding what rainwater harvesting pits could collect. Ranganath added that no new construction will be allowed in lake areas, and old structures will be demolished unless they are long-established residential buildings that have been occupied for several years.
Legal action has already been initiated against officials who have assisted lake encroachers, and further steps will be taken to address the issue. The HYDRAA commissioner made it clear that stricter enforcement will be followed to protect water bodies and prevent further encroachments.
As the city faces increasing challenges with water management and urbanisation, the protection of these vital water resources has become critical. By preventing illegal construction and improving lake infrastructure, HYDRAA aims to create a sustainable approach to water conservation and urban planning. It is hoped that by implementing these changes, Hyderabad will set an example for other cities facing similar challenges with encroachment and environmental degradation.
Moving forward, the initiative to restore lakes and prevent further encroachments reflects a growing awareness of the need to protect natural resources. By addressing both illegal constructions and systemic inefficiencies, the city can begin to alleviate some of the pressures associated with rapid urban expansion. With collaborative efforts from the government, local authorities, and the public, Hyderabad's lakes and water bodies could be safeguarded for future generations.
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