Madhapur and Kukatpally lakes to get tourism makeover; HYDRAA sets November deadline

Hyderabad: HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath has instructed officials to complete the development and beautification works at Thammidikunta in Madhapur and Nallacheruvu in Kukatpally by November.

He inspected both lakes on Friday and reviewed the progress of works, emphasising the need to transform them into tourist-friendly, environmentally sustainable public spaces.

Thammidikunta to be developed as a tourist destination

During his inspection of Thammidikunta, Ranganath said the project should be executed in a manner that enhances the lake’s natural beauty and tourist appeal.

He instructed officials to develop the main entrance on the Shilparamam side, as it connects directly to major attractions like Hitech City and Shilparamam, making it a convenient entry point for visitors.

Strengthening inlets and retaining walls

The commissioner directed officials to ensure that inlet channels from the Shilparamam and Charminar sides are improved for a smooth flow of rainwater and to avoid stagnation.

He also instructed that retaining walls be constructed along the outer bund, while the inner stone pitching must be reinforced to strengthen the lake’s structure.

Expansion and drainage development

Ranganath pointed out that the lake area has been expanded from 14 acres to 29 acres and directed that it should be developed to hold water throughout the entire stretch.

He asked engineers to complete flood and drainage channels at the earliest to ensure that stormwater drains out efficiently during heavy rains, preventing waterlogging in nearby localities.

Green pathways and climate resilience

Highlighting the need for environmental balance, the commissioner instructed that the 3-km pathway around the lake be lined with shade-providing and oxygen-producing trees.

He said this greenery would help reduce surrounding temperatures by 3–4 degrees Celsius and create a pleasant walking and recreational environment for the public.

Nallacheruvu development to benefit thousands of residents

Inspecting Nallacheruvu in Kukatpally, Ranganath said the lake’s rejuvenation should focus on creating leisure and recreation facilities for the large number of people living in the vicinity.

He instructed officials to develop a wide walking and jogging pathway and to set up a park for children and families near the main entrance.

Focus on clean water and the drainage network

Ranganath directed that the inlet and outlet channels be completed at the earliest to ensure a proper flow of clean water.

He instructed the Water Board officials to expedite the completion of the drainage system to prevent any sewage inflow into the lake. Officials were told to closely monitor canal construction to ensure a clean and sustainable lake ecosystem.

Encroachment-free and restored lake area

Local expressed happiness over the progress of works, noting that the lake — once reduced to 17 acres due to encroachments — has now been restored to 27 acres. They thanked the HYDRAA commissioner for his initiative, saying that the development has transformed their neighbourhood into a clean and beautiful space.

Commitment to urban sustainability

Ranganath said that lake rejuvenation projects such as those at Thammidikunta and Nallacheruvu are part of HYDRAA’s broader efforts to revive urban waterbodies, improve biodiversity and promote sustainable city living.