Pharma waste dumping in Domadugu lake: APSC holds protest against Telangana SPCB

Hyderabad: Anti-Pollution Struggle Committee (APSC) held a protest against Telangana State Pollution Control Board for allegedly turning blind eye to the dumping of chemicals and pharmaceutical waste in Domadugu lake in Sangareddy district.

The committee has raised concerns about the severe negligence of the pollution control board and demands immediate action to protect the lives of the people of the village.

"The struggle is the right to live, which is not just a problem of Domadugu village. The protest is against the severe negligence of government and PCB officials who are playing with the lives of the people. The Nallakunta lake in Domadugu village turned pink due to toxic chemicals released by Hetero Drugs. The pollution is severely affecting groundwater and public health," said Kanneganti Ravi, convener of the committee.

What happened in Domadugu?

In August 2024, the lake turned a shocking pink colour due to the alleged dumping of toxic effluents by pharmaceutical company Hetero Drugs (unit 1). This contamination led to a chain of events where the lake deteriorated and caused contamination in the groundwater and agricultural lands.

Villagers have continuously complained of the lake's surface having a thick layer of chemical waste and a foul smell from the lake.

The water tests conducted by the committee show high levels of contamination.

History of the lake

The Nalla Cheruvu (or Nallakunta Lake) has historically been an important water source for the village. It has helped in the agriculture fields, recharged groundwater water and also used by human habitat.

What does the committee say?

Despite several complaints and test reports submitted, the TSPCB failed to act against the company. They have shown an indifferent attitude towards all complaints and reports. Villagers have decided to come to Hyderabad and protest. The complaints were also made to Praja Bhavan, but there has not been any response.

"We demand closure of the Hetero Drugs company. It is our 'Right to Life,' and the TSPCB and government have failed to take that into account. They are not protecting the lake," said Mangayya.

What does TSPCB say?

Six industrial units were closed in November 2025 by TSPCB as they are surveying those industries that are causing pollution. A TSPCB official said, "When the TSBCB officials went to Domadugu village, the villagers confronted the official. TSPCB has to carry out a proper survey to act."