Let’s Unite to Protect Our City, urges CM Revanth Reddy

As part of the government’s efforts to restore Hyderabad’s water bodies , Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy inaugurated the redeveloped Nallacheruvu in Kukatpally on Tuesday. During the ceremony, he offered prayers to Ganga Amma, performing traditional rituals and presenting silk cloth along with turmeric and vermilion.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister emphasized that protecting and reviving lakes is essential to address the growing urban challenges facing the city. He said conserving water resources and restoring lakes and ponds would help safeguard Hyderabad from floods while also preventing environmental damage.

Revanth Reddy reiterated the government’s resolve to rejuvenate the Musi River and preserve other water bodies across the city. Strengthening these natural systems, he noted, would help Hyderabad better withstand future flooding. He also made it clear that encroachments in lakes within the city limits would be removed and the water bodies would be systematically developed.

Referring to successful riverfront projects elsewhere, the Chief Minister pointed out that cities like Ahmedabad and Delhi have taken steps to develop the Sabarmati and Yamuna rivers. In a similar way, Hyderabad must restore the Musi, he said, warning that failure to act now would leave future generations questioning the present leadership’s responsibility toward environmental protection.

He assured that poor families living near lakes would receive fair treatment and would not be subjected to unnecessary hardship. Recalling the criticism he faced when HYDRAA was formed, Revanth Reddy said the lake restoration initiative is being carried out purely for the city’s long-term benefit. He added that the transformation of Nallacheruvu has already been welcomed by local residents .

The Chief Minister also announced plans to set up vending stalls for women entrepreneurs and play areas for children around the lake as part of the development works. In addition, he promised development funds for all Assembly segments in the Malkajgiri parliamentary constituency, irrespective of political affiliations. He urged citizens to bring civic issues directly to his notice.

Several ministers, MLAs and senior officials were present at the event.

Lake area restored after removal of encroachments

HYDRAA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath said the restoration project has significantly improved the lake’s condition. Earlier, due to encroachments, silt accumulation and dumping of construction debris, the water spread had reduced to nearly 16 acres . After clearing encroachments, the lake has now been expanded to around 30 acres .

To prevent floodwater from entering nearby residential areas, eight inlets have been constructed, allowing rainwater to flow directly into the lake and improving flood management in the locality.