HYDRAA flags flood risk as Hyderabad loses 61% of lakes amid massive population surge

Hyderabad: The city’s population has grown from 2.1 million in 1975 to around 13 million today, a 6.2-fold increase, while natural water bodies have sharply declined.

Rapid urbanisation and shrinking water bodies are emerging as major concerns for Hyderabad’s future, HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath said on Wednesday.

Citing National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) data, he said nearly 61 per cent of Hyderabad’s lakes have disappeared between 1975 and 2024.

“If we do not act now, even the remaining lakes could vanish, leaving floodwaters with no natural drainage path,” he warned.

Proactive flood prevention measures

Ranganath said HYDRAA is working with a clear goal of preventing urban flooding through planning. Flood-prone areas are being identified ahead of the monsoon and preventive measures are being taken to minimise damage.

He noted that despite heavy rains last year, these efforts helped avoid major disruptions in the city.

3 out of 24 lakes restored

The Commissioner said large-scale restoration of lakes and interlinked flood channels is underway. Out of 24 lakes taken up for rejuvenation, three have already been restored.

He stressed that reconnecting the chain of lakes and ensuring smooth flow through stormwater drains is critical to handling excess rainwater.

Removing encroachments crucial for restoring natural water flow

Nearly 30,000 nalas in the city have been identified as encroached, posing a serious flood threat. HYDRAA has been removing these encroachments to restore natural water flow.

Restoration of Bathukamma Kunta and clearance of encroachments along Patny Nala have reduced flood risks in several areas. In Ameerpet, clearing blocked underground pipelines has resolved recurring waterlogging issues.

Rising awareness of FTL norms

Ranganath said awareness about Full Tank Level (FTL) and buffer zones has improved significantly among citizens. Developers and homebuyers are increasingly factoring these norms into their decisions, helping prevent future risks.

Unified powers for stronger action

He said powers from GHMC, irrigation, revenue and fire departments have been brought under HYDRAA, enabling faster action against violations and encroachments.

“All decisions are being taken keeping the city’s long-term sustainability in mind,” he said.

Ranganath was speaking at a seminar organised by the Central Water Commission and Krishna-Godavari Basin Organisation at the Dr Marri Chenna Reddy Human Resource Development Institute.

Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy also addressed the gathering, along with officials from various departments.