Hyderabad: HYDRAA to fence 200 acres of govt land in Puppalaguda to prevent encroachments

Hyderabad: HYDRAA has decided to fence over 200 acres of government land in Puppalaguda village of Rangareddy district, to prevent encroachment.

This follows the complaints from environmental groups and residents about illegal activities threatening ancient rock formations and nearby water bodies.

HYDRAA responds to Rock Conservation appeal

Following a complaint by representatives of the “Society to Save Rocks,” HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath conducted a field visit on Wednesday.

The society had requested protection of natural granite formations located in survey numbers 452/1 and 454/1, which are believed to be around 2.5 billion years old. These formations are considered a vital part of Hyderabad’s natural heritage.

Fencing planned around religious allotments

Commissioner Ranganath stated that the government has reportedly allotted up to 10 acres of land in the area for religious institutions, including temples and a dargah.

The exact demarcation of these allocations will be done in coordination with the revenue department. Once boundaries are verified, fencing will be carried out around the allotted land to prevent further encroachments, and the remaining land will be preserved as protected public property.

Protecting nature and following court orders

“Preserving these rock formations is not just about heritage, it is about protecting our environment and natural identity,” said the Commissioner. He added that HYDRAA will also review relevant High Court orders that restrict construction in this ecologically sensitive zone.

Locals demand protection of Bhagirathamma Lake

Residents of the area also appealed to HYDRAA to safeguard the nearby Bhagirathamma Cheruvu (lake), which lies adjacent to the rock terrain. They alleged that stormwater inlets feeding the lake have been blocked, and warned that continued neglect would further endanger both the lake and the historic rocks.

HYDRAA reviews Narsingi Rock Belt

During his field inspections, Commissioner Ranganath also reviewed a large stretch of natural rock formations spanning over 160 acres in the Narsingi area. He reiterated that such geologically significant landscapes must be protected from illegal construction and urban sprawl.

HYDRAA plans revival of NITHM lake

In a related initiative, Commissioner Ranganath also visited the lake located within the National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management (NITHM) campus, which has deteriorated due to sewage inflow and sedimentation. The visit followed an invitation by NITHM Director Prof. Venkataramana, who sought guidance on restoration efforts.

Lake restoration with modern amenities

The Commissioner emphasized the need for desilting, construction of bunds, and redirection of sewage to prevent further pollution. Plans are underway to transform the lake area into a vibrant public space with facilities such as a walking track, green lawns, an open gym, and a children’s play area.

Citywide lake revivals progressing

HYDRAA has already cleared encroachments and silt from six other lakes across Hyderabad. “Only after completely removing silt and resolving encroachment issues are we taking up bund construction and landscaping,” the Commissioner explained.

He also informed the NITHM faculty that the Batukamma Kunta lake in Amberpet is nearing completion and will soon be fully opened to the public with modern amenities.