The Telangana government is considering a phased plan to develop a new green urban zone across the GO 111 region surrounding Hyderabad’s twin reservoirs, aiming to balance urban expansion with environmental protection. The proposal seeks to permit limited construction while preserving a majority of the land for greenery, open spaces and essential public infrastructure, reflecting a shift towards more sustainable land-use planning.
The recommendations, submitted by a high-level expert committee, cover nearly 1.32 lakh acres spread across 84 villages in the catchment area of Osman Sagar and Himayat Sagar. Instead of lifting development restrictions across the entire region at once, the committee has proposed beginning with six to eight villages located within the Outer Ring Road, allowing authorities to assess environmental impacts before wider implementation. The GO 111 green city proposal recommends increasing the permissible built-up area from the existing limit to a maximum of 40%, while ensuring the remaining 60% is reserved for green cover, roads, water bodies and public open spaces. The approach aims to maintain ecological balance while accommodating carefully planned urban growth. Planning experts have also recommended that projects avoid obstructing natural rainwater channels and incorporate sustainable infrastructure, including sewage treatment plants and zero liquid discharge systems. These measures are intended to reduce pollution risks, improve water management and support climate-resilient urban development.
The GO 111 regulations were originally introduced in 1996 to protect the catchment areas of Osman Sagar and Himayat Sagar, which historically served as major drinking water sources for Hyderabad. However, with the city now receiving substantial water supplies from the Krishna and Godavari river systems, policymakers are reassessing land-use restrictions while seeking to preserve environmentally sensitive areas. Urban planners believe the GO 111 green city initiative presents an opportunity to create a low-density, environmentally conscious urban model that integrates residential development with green infrastructure. They caution, however, that any relaxation of development norms should be supported by robust environmental monitoring, scientific zoning and strict enforcement of sustainability standards.
Experts also stress that protecting lakes, drainage networks and biodiversity corridors should remain central to future planning decisions. Maintaining natural ecosystems alongside controlled urban development will be essential for mitigating flood risks, preserving groundwater recharge and enhancing long-term climate resilience in the Hyderabad metropolitan region. The government’s review of the expert committee’s recommendations is expected to shape the future of one of Hyderabad’s most environmentally significant zones. If implemented with careful planning and regulatory oversight, the proposal could provide a framework for accommodating urban growth while safeguarding natural resources and strengthening sustainable city development.
