Save Katoura Hauz: HYDRAA to support restoration of 450-year-old water body at Golconda Fort

Hyderabad: Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has assured full cooperation for the restoration and conservation of Katoura Hauz, a historic water body located within the precincts of Golconda Fort.

HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath said protecting such heritage water resources is crucial and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to the project.

Field inspection at Katoura Hauz

The Commissioner conducted a field-level inspection of Katoura Hauz, a 450-year-old water tank currently under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India.

The visit followed a request from Nirmaan NGO, which has taken the initiative to restore the historic structure to its former glory.

NGO, Archaeology officials present restoration plan

Representatives of Nirmaan NGO, including project supervisor Kalpana Ramesh, along with officials from the Archaeology Department, briefed the Commissioner on the ongoing and proposed works.

They explained plans to:

Install high fencing around the water tank to prevent dumping of garbage.

Develop a pathway around the tank for protection and accessibility.

Find an alternative solution to an existing sewage pipeline passing through the water body.

The NGO representatives highlighted that frequent on-ground hurdles were slowing progress and sought HYDRAA’s support to overcome these challenges.

HYDRAA’s assurance

Responding positively, the Commissioner assured that HYDRAA would extend full cooperation for the restoration of the reservoir, including assistance in installing fencing and addressing infrastructure-related issues.

He stressed that HYDRAA’s experience in reviving historic lakes and water bodies would significantly contribute to the successful rejuvenation of Katoura Hauz.

Call for progress report

Emphasising the urgent need to preserve historic water resources, the Commissioner asked Nirmaan NGO and Archaeology Department officials to submit detailed reports on the restoration activities undertaken so far and future action plans.

Preserving heritage water bodies

The Commissioner noted that safeguarding historic reservoirs like Katoura Hauz is essential not only for heritage conservation but also for sustainable urban ecology, and reiterated HYDRAA’s commitment to supporting such initiatives.