Walking track, tree lines, seating areas: HYDRAA to transform Cherlapally Jail lake into eco-friendly public space

Hyderabad: HYDRAA is all set to transform the 58-acre Cherlapally Lake located within the Cherlapally Central Jail premises into a scenic, eco-friendly public space as part of its efforts to promote sustainable urban revitalization.

The initiative comes after the Director General of Prisons, Soumya Mishra, sought HYDRAA’s help in restoring and beautifying the neglected water body.

Formal Request by the Prisons Department

During a meeting with HYDRAA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath, Mishra presented video footage highlighting the lake’s deteriorated condition and proposed a comprehensive restoration plan. She praised HYDRAA’s proven track record in rejuvenating urban lakes and requested similar efforts at Cherlapally.

Strategic Location and Environmental Significance

HYDRAA engineers confirmed that Cherlapally Lake is part of a hydrologically connected chain of lakes extending from Hakimpet to Aaredu. Importantly, the lake already features a functional diversion channel to prevent sewage inflow, making it suitable for eco-restoration.

Plans for Public Access and Beautification

As part of the development blueprint, HYDRAA will build a 3-kilometer walking track around the lake, along with landscaped pathways, tree plantations, seating areas, and CCTV surveillance. The project aims to create a safe, scenic, and accessible space for both the public and jail staff.

Corporate Support for Public Good

Mishra stated that local industries in the Cherlapally area have expressed readiness to fund the initiative under their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitments, further strengthening public-private collaboration.

HYDRAA takes charge of implementation

Commissioner Ranganath responded positively and immediately assigned the project to HYDRAA officials. He assured a site visit in the coming days and showcased video documentation of six successfully rejuvenated lakes developed under HYDRAA’s earlier initiatives.

Model for Sustainable Development

This collaboration between the Telangana Prisons Department and HYDRAA represents a model of institutional partnership in environmental stewardship. The project is expected to turn an underutilized water body into a sustainable, multi-functional urban asset.