Hyderabad loses 61% of lakes; HYDRAA boss Ranganath presses alarm button, seeks immediate action

Hyderabad: Hyderabad is facing a serious environmental challenge, with 61% of the city’s lakes already vanished, according to the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC).

HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath emphasized that immediate action is necessary to protect the remaining water bodies, prevent urban flooding, and ensure sustainable urban development.

He added that growing public awareness is key to the success of these initiatives, while addressing a seminar, organized under the International Commission of Culture and Diplomatic Relations (ICCDR) to mark United Nations Day, which focused on promoting cultural and diplomatic ties.

Restoring Lakes and Waterways

Commissioner Ranganath highlighted HYDRAA’s ongoing projects to reclaim encroached lakes and rejuvenate waterways. Bathukamma Kunta has been fully restored after being affected by encroachments, while five additional lakes are scheduled for full development soon.

Stormwater drains and canals, including Patny Nala, were upgraded to protect seven colonies from flooding. Large-scale silt removal in canals also helped mitigate flood risks during the recent heavy rains.

He warned that failure to protect lakes and connecting waterways could lead to severe flooding in Hyderabad, underscoring the urgency of these measures for the city’s ecological and urban resilience.

Protecting Government Lands and Public Spaces

In addition to lake conservation, HYDRAA has successfully safeguarded 1,000 acres of government land over the past 15 months, valued at nearly Rs 60,000 crore. Commissioner Ranganath said public awareness about the importance of preserving parks, roads, and civic spaces has been instrumental in achieving these milestones.

Citizen Participation Drives Urban Sustainability

“The city’s environmental resilience depends on both government action and citizen engagement,” said Ranganath. Public participation has been crucial in initiatives such as lake restoration, flood mitigation, and protection of urban green spaces, reflecting a collective effort for sustainable urban development.

Aligning with Sustainable Development Goals

Guest speakers Rear Admiral R. Srinivas Rao and Major S.P.S. Oberoi highlighted that these initiatives support global sustainable development efforts. Commissioner Ranganath noted that HYDRAA’s programs align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting water security, urban resilience, and overall community well-being.

Special guests Padma Kant Hazarika (OSD/Mission Director, APTDCL, Assam) and Sarsing Engti (Chairman, Dorothy Voluntary Association) attended, while ICCDR Secretary-General Ambassador Dr. Srinivas Eluri highlighted the organization’s mission of strengthening international cultural and diplomatic relations.

Prominent individuals from various sectors were honored with Sustainable Development Goals Awards for their contributions to environmental protection, urban planning, and social progress.