Kokapet Lake, once a pristine waterbody, has suffered from pollution and shrinkage as a result of rapid construction activities in the surrounding area. The lake has become cluttered with debris, solid waste, and algae, and its size has significantly reduced. The lack of a proper sewage system and flawed masterplan on the hydrology of the lake are contributing factors. Local residents are concerned about the government land auction in Kokapet, which may worsen the situation. Experts warn of the potential for urban flooding and emphasize the need for measures such as a Sewage Treatment Plant to address the issue of sewage pollution.
On account of multiple construction projects in its surrounding area, Kokapet Lake, which was once a pristine waterbody, has experienced a significant reduction in its size. The portion of the lake that remains untouched has become cluttered with debris, solid waste, and algae. Previously extending over an area of 55 acres, with water that was considerably cleaner compared to other lakes, the lake has now transformed into a polluted reservoir of sewage, solid waste, and debris. Local residents have observed this deterioration within a short span of three years.
Local residents point out that there has been a rapid surge in construction activities in the area, particularly during the pandemic. The lack of a well-designed sewage system prior to granting construction permits has led to the pollution of the lake. Residents have expressed concern about the recent government land auction in Kokapet, which is expected to exacerbate the existing problem.
Experts have noted that the proliferation of algae is a clear indicator of the significant decline in oxygen levels within the water. According to a technical member specializing in reservoirs and lakes within the water domain at the Bureau of Indian Standards, it is certain that Kokapet will soon become a major victim of urban flooding in the coming months or years. He attributes this potential disaster primarily to the flawed masterplan on the hydrology of the lake as there are currently no designated areas allocated for sewage disposal.
When contacted by the press, officials from the irrigation department confirmed that they are yet to conduct a survey of the lake to determine the extent of the shrinkage and that there is a proposal in the works to construct a Sewage Treatment Plant near the lake to address the issue of sewerage pollution.
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