Hyderabad: Residents agree to shift Hanuman temple, Chilla from Sunnam Cheruvu FTL zone

Hyderabad: Residents of the Sunnam Cheruvu vicinity near Madhapur and Borabanda have agreed to relocate the Lord Hanuman temple and the nearby Chilla that currently fall within the Full Tank Level (FTL) boundary of the lake.

The decision was finalised during a meeting held by the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) on Saturday.

Part of lake restoration initiative

Sunnam Cheruvu is among the six lakes being restored in the first phase of HYDRAA’s rejuvenation programme.

During the restoration assessment, officials identified the temple and the Muslim religious structure (Chilla) within the FTL zone, which hindered development as per environmental and legal norms.

The presence of these structures became a widely discussed topic on social media, prompting HYDRAA to hold a dialogue with residents representing both communities.

HYDRAA explains guidelines and proposal

HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath chaired the discussions at the authority’s office. During the meeting, he explained the Supreme Court directions and government guidelines governing religious structures located on water bodies, encroached spaces, or FTL zones.

Officials proposed shifting both structures not demolishing to a surveyed and culturally suitable location along the lake bund, ensuring accessibility and preservation of religious significance.

Residents extend support

After hearing the proposal, representatives from both Hindu and Muslim community groups expressed willingness to cooperate. They agreed that relocating the structures outside the FTL area would protect the lake while also preserving religious sentiment and community harmony, the HYDRAA Commissioner said.

Relocation to be conducted respectfully

Officials confirmed that the relocation process will be carried out in consultation with religious representatives, ensuring the safe movement of idols and all associated elements as per traditional customs.

The agreement marks the resolution of an issue that had raised concerns among locals and online groups over the past week.

Way forward

With community consensus secured, HYDRAA will now proceed with the next phase of restoration works at Sunnam Cheruvu. The authority stated that the decision not only safeguards the water body but also stands as an example of peaceful coordination between communities and the administration.