Cherlapally Lake in Medchal-Malkajgiri district is set for a green transformation as Hyderabad’s disaster response agency HYDRAA and Telangana Prisons Department propose a beautification and eco-tourism plan funded through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The project aims to introduce walking tracks, mini parks, solar lighting, and CCTV surveillance, turning the 58-acre water body into a safe, scenic, and accessible public space.
On June 19, senior officials, including HYDRAA Commissioner, and Director General of Prisons, toured the Cherlapally Tank. They proposed turning it into a recreational and holiday destination supported by CSR funds from nearby industries. Located close to Cherlapally Jail, the lake’s surroundings are being evaluated for landscape enhancements, safety infrastructure, and public access improvements.
The proposal includes completing the lake’s perimeter fencing, strengthening the bund, and constructing a three-kilometre walking track. Mini parks, tree-lined paths, and seating zones are planned to enhance public engagement and ecological value. Officials also discussed solar-powered lighting and CCTV cameras for security, and explored mechanisms to channel clean water consistently into the lake from upstream water bodies.
Cherlapally Lake receives overflow from a chain of lakes—Nagireddy Kunta, Kapra Lake, Mothukula Kunta, and Bison Kunta. It also features a sewage diversion channel. Irrigation engineers from HYDRAA have been tasked with preparing a detailed project report (DPR), which will guide the funding and phasing of development activities based on segment-wise cost estimates and environmental impact.
Several industries from the Cherlapally industrial zone are ready to invest in the project through CSR funding. She requested a detailed financial blueprint to present to stakeholders. GHMC, Revenue, and Irrigation department officials also participated in the lake inspection, underscoring the inter-agency collaboration behind this planned model of sustainable urban lake rejuvenation.
The transformation of Cherlapally Lake represents Hyderabad’s growing commitment to urban sustainability and citizen well-being. With support from CSR and civic agencies, the lake could soon become a blueprint for eco-tourism and green urban infrastructure in Telangana. If successfully implemented, the project will not only restore a key water body but also offer safe, inclusive public spaces for recreation and community engagement.
