Hyderabad: HYDRAA, TGPCB tie up to revitalize water bodies; restore 10 lakes

Hyderabad: Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has joined hands with the Telangana Pollution Control Board (TGPCB) to improve water quality in lakes.

The decision was taken during a coordination meeting chaired by HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath along with the TGPCB officials at their headquarters here.

During the meeting, deliberations were held by the officials to preserve lakes and revitalize water bodies. Key measures also include monitoring industrial waste, installing pollutant-tracing meters, raising awareness, and forming lake protection committees

Speaking on the occasion, TGCPB Member Secretary, G Ravi has said that lakes and other water bodies may only be restored if building and demolition trash are no longer dumped into the lake beds and banks.

He underscored the need to control the amount of sewage and industrial effluents that enter lakes by making sure they are properly treated before being released elsewhere.

The teams of HYDRA and TGPCB officials will work together to improve water quality by real-time continuous water quality monitoring, prevent illegal dumping by imposing fines, and seize the vehicles used for these activities, he said.

Ranganath said: "For all identified lakes and water bodies, a large-scale effort would be undertaken to collaborate with educational institutions, research institutes, environmental NGOs, and local communities to join this effort to come on a common platform There is an urgent need for more inspections and sanctions for environmental norm violations.”

Serious action will be taken against anyone who violates environmental rules and pollution control standards, the officials said with a particular emphasis on large realtors and added that a special drive would also be launched against the infringing gated communities and companies.

HYDRAA to restore 10 lakes

Meanwhile, HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath also visited Bhaksikunta and Regula Kunta lakes in the Chandanagar division. He accompanied by ‘Lake Man of India’ Anand Malligavad inspected the ongoing development, sewage management, and water quality in the lakes.

Ranganath also addressed locals' complaints about land privatization, directed protection of 5,000 square yards, and announced plans to develop 10 lakes and safeguard public spaces.