lake activists have raised serious allegations against real estate developers, accusing them of encroaching upon lakes that were entrusted to them for preservation. The activists are now calling on the government to revoke the adoption permissions granted to these developers, citing multiple violations and illegal constructions around the lakes.
The lake adoption initiative, launched during the previous BRS administration, permitted real estate firms to oversee lake restoration projects as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities. This program aimed to leverage private sector resources for enhancing and maintaining local water bodies.
However, activists have reported that some developers have breached the guidelines set forth for these projects. They have specifically highlighted the case of Ranglal Kunta in Nanakramguda, alleging severe encroachments and environmental damage. According to the activists, satellite imagery from Google Earth spanning from November 2017 to March 2024 reveals significant alterations to the area, including the destruction of a hill to create parking space and the obliteration of inflow channels by constructions from WaveRock. Furthermore, encroachments by Jayabheri Properties within the Full Tank Level (FTL) boundary are cited as critical issues that need immediate remediation. In response to these allegations, Jayabheri Group has firmly denied any wrongdoing, asserting that their activities comply fully with the legal framework governing lake preservation. Similarly, the Vasavi Group has refuted claims of any violations related to their projects.
The activists’ demands include the revocation of lake adoption permissions for both Jayabheri Properties and WaveRock, and a thorough investigation into these breaches. They argue that the integrity of the lake restoration program is at stake, and prompt government action is required to rectify the situation and uphold environmental regulations. This controversy underscores a broader issue within the lake adoption program, raising questions about the effectiveness of the initiative and the enforcement of guidelines intended to safeguard Hyderabad’s water bodies.
