The Telangana High Court has directed the Commissioner of Uppal
Municipality to present a comprehensive plan of action developed by the
Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) for safeguarding the
region’s lakes.
The court observed that the urban lakes, integral components of the local eco-
heritage, are crucial for safeguarding the interests of future generations. They
fulfil vital roles, such as replenishing underground water resources, contributing
to local climate regulation, and supporting the overall ecological balance.
Furthermore, these water bodies play a pivotal role in raising the water table in
the surrounding regions, which helps in maintaining environmental equilibrium.
The court has instructed the authorities concerned to take immediate action to
protect Ramanthapur Pedda Cheruvu. This includes measures such as desilting
the lake to enhance its depth and water-holding capacity, clearing all
encroachments within its buffer zone, and preventing the discharge of drainage
or effluents. Additionally, the GHMC has been tasked with undertaking plantation efforts in
the catchment areas to mitigate soil erosion and further desilting. As a
preliminary measure, the court has deemed it necessary for the GHMC to fence
the entire area surrounding the water body.
