Hyderabad’s Hussain Sagar Lake, a significant landmark and ecological zone, is once again in the spotlight as legislators call for urgent intervention to remove unauthorised constructions within its buffer zone. In a formal letter to the Chief Minister of Telangana on August 26, state lawmakers demanded decisive action against business entities operating in violation of environmental regulations within the lake’s protected area.
The legislators have appealed to the Chief Minister to direct the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Monitoring and Protection (HYDRA) to dismantle these illegal structures. These constructions, which were reportedly sanctioned by previous state authorities, have sparked significant concern due to their impact on the lake’s ecosystem and the livelihood of local communities dependent on this water resource. Highlighting a persistent issue, the lawmakers noted that the problem of illegal constructions within the buffer zones of water bodies has been a long-standing one, exacerbated by lapses in enforcement and monitoring. They drew attention to the late Khairatabad MLA, who had previously championed this cause, advocating for stricter controls and immediate removal of such structures to protect the lake and its surrounding environment.
In their letter, the legislators emphasised the adverse effects these encroachments have on the Hussain Sagar Lake. The encroachments have not only degraded the water quality and exacerbated pollution levels, causing an unpleasant odour to linger around the lake, but have also led to significant disruptions for local farmers and fishermen who rely on the lake’s resources. The lake, which is a critical source of water and livelihood for many, has been compromised by these unauthorised activities. To comprehensively address the issue of encroachments, the lawmakers proposed an expansion of the jurisdiction of the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA). They suggested that extending HMDA’s authority to the state level would provide a more robust framework for monitoring and enforcing regulations across all water bodies in Telangana, including lakes, ponds, and other water resources.
The legislators also called on district collectors throughout Telangana to take proactive measures against illegal constructions in the buffer zones of water bodies under their jurisdiction. They urged a coordinated state-wide crackdown on such violations to ensure that all water bodies are preserved and protected from further degradation. This demand for action comes amid growing public awareness and concern over environmental issues in Hyderabad. The Hussain Sagar Lake, which has historically been a symbol of the city’s rich heritage and culture, is now a focal point of environmental activism. Citizens and environmental groups have been vocal in their calls for the government to implement stricter controls and safeguard the lake from further harm.
As Hyderabad continues to expand, balancing urban development with environmental conservation remains a critical challenge for policymakers. The legislators’ call to action reflects a broader recognition of the need for sustainable development practices that protect the city’s natural resources while supporting its growth. With increased pressure from both lawmakers and the public, the state government faces a crucial decision in addressing the encroachments around Hussain Sagar Lake and setting a precedent for environmental governance in Telangana.
