Amberpet residents celebrate Bathukamma Kunta’s restoration with kite festival

Hyderabad: Bathukamma Kunta at Amberpet turned into a vibrant canvas of colours on Monday as dozens of kites soared high in the sky ahead of Sankranti, drawing cheers from children and residents alike.

The festive atmosphere marked a symbolic celebration of the lake’s transformation following its restoration by HYDRAA.

HYDRAA chief participates in celebrations

The kite festival, organised by locals on the banks of the rejuvenated lake, was attended by AV Ranganath, Commissioner of HYDRAA, who actively participated in the celebrations.

He flew kites along with former Member of Parliament and senior Congress leader V Hanumantha Rao, adding to the enthusiasm of the gathering.

Residents thank HYDRAA

Locals expressed joy over the dramatic change in their surroundings after encroachments were removed and Bathukamma Kunta was restored.

Many residents shared sweets and thanked HYDRAA officials for reviving the lake, noting improvements in the local environment.

Lake is now a regular walking spot

Women and senior citizens said the restored lake has become a regular walking spot in the mornings and evenings, contributing to better health and well-being.

They conveyed their gratitude to the government and HYDRAA for transforming the area into a community-friendly space.

More facilities to be added: HYDRAA commissioner

Addressing residents, HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath assured that additional amenities would soon be provided around the lake. The upgradations will include:

- Exercise equipment for women and children.

- More benches for senior citizens.

- Public toilets for visitors.

- Rest rooms for security personnel.

He said it was encouraging to see people relaxing and celebrating near a lake developed by HYDRAA, adding that the government’s objective of improving urban living spaces was being fulfilled.

More lakes to be developed across the city

Ranganath revealed that Bathukamma Kunta is the first to be opened among the six lakes taken up in the initial phase by HYDRAA.

The remaining five lakes will be made accessible to the public within the next one or two months. Additionally, work on 14 more lakes is planned to be taken up later this year across Hyderabad.

Restoration efforts praised

Speaking on the occasion, Hanumantha Rao lauded the government for undertaking the challenging task of removing encroachments and restoring urban lakes. He described the initiative as bold and essential for the city’s ecological balance.

Telangana Fisheries Development Corporation Chairman Mettu Saikumar, HYDRA officials Tirumal and Umamaheshwar Rao, Inspector Balagopal and several local leaders were also present at the event, which concluded on a festive note with kites filling the sky over Bathukamma Kunta.