CM Revanth Reddy Inaugurates Restored Nallacheruvu, Calls for Reviving Hyderabad’s Lakes
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy called for large-scale urban reforms in Hyderabad, including the expansion of roads, restoration of lakes, removal of encroachments in drainage channels, and development of sports spaces for children. He emphasized that these steps are essential to transform Hyderabad into a modern and sustainable metropolitan city.
The Chief Minister made these remarks while inaugurating the restored Nallacheruvu lake in Kukatpally, which has been rejuvenated by the HYDRAA (Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency). During the ceremony, he offered special prayers to Ganga Amma at the lake, performing traditional rituals including offering silk clothes and turmeric.
Nallacheruvu Restoration Project
The Nallacheruvu lake restoration project is part of a broader initiative to revive water bodies across Hyderabad. Over the years, rapid urbanization and encroachments had led to the deterioration of many lakes in the city.
Through the HYDRAA initiative, authorities undertook efforts to remove illegal encroachments, clean the lake, and restore its ecological balance. The restored lake is expected to improve groundwater recharge, enhance environmental quality, and provide recreational spaces for residents.
During the public meeting organized near the lake, the Chief Minister expressed satisfaction after witnessing the positive response from residents following the restoration.
Vision for Hyderabad’s Urban Development
Addressing local residents and officials, the Chief Minister stressed that Hyderabad must continue evolving into a well-planned and environmentally sustainable city. He stated that the city should focus on multiple development initiatives simultaneously.
According to him, road expansion, lake restoration, nala clearing, and public infrastructure improvements must be implemented together to create a livable urban environment.
He also highlighted the need to create playgrounds and sports facilities for children, particularly in densely populated urban areas where open spaces are limited.
Importance of Protecting Lakes and Water Bodies
The Chief Minister warned that failing to restore Hyderabad’s lakes and waterways could lead to severe environmental consequences in the future. He stressed that ignoring pollution and encroachments could leave future generations facing serious water management and ecological challenges.
He noted that cleaning and protecting the Musi River is also a major priority for the government. According to him, restoring the Musi ecosystem is necessary for improving the city's environmental sustainability and flood management.
Commercial Development Around Lakes
As part of the lake development plan, the government intends to create recreational and commercial spaces around restored lakes. The Chief Minister suggested establishing small business zones and stalls around the parks developed near water bodies.
Such initiatives are expected to boost local economic activity while creating attractive public spaces for families and visitors.
He also suggested developing sports grounds and play areas for children along lakefronts so that the restored spaces can serve both environmental and recreational purposes.
Addressing Concerns of Displaced Residents
While acknowledging that removing encroachments may cause inconvenience to some residents, the Chief Minister assured that the government would protect the interests of the poor.
He stated that families who genuinely lose their homes due to development activities will be provided support through government housing schemes such as double-bedroom housing projects. Additionally, appropriate compensation will be provided wherever necessary.
The government, he emphasized, has no intention of causing injustice to economically weaker communities while implementing urban development projects.
Development Beyond Politics
The Chief Minister urged all political groups and community leaders to support the development initiatives beyond political differences. According to him, urban infrastructure and environmental restoration projects should be treated as common goals for the welfare of the city.
He stated that the government is prepared to allocate the necessary funds to ensure that the Kukatpally region and surrounding areas develop into well-planned urban zones.
Learning from Other Riverfront Projects
While explaining the importance of river and lake restoration, the Chief Minister cited examples of successful riverfront projects across India. He mentioned that cities such as Ahmedabad, Delhi, and locations in Uttar Pradesh have developed riverfront projects along the Sabarmati, Yamuna, and Ganga rivers respectively.
According to him, Hyderabad should also undertake similar large-scale environmental restoration initiatives for the Musi River to improve the city’s urban landscape and ecological balance.
Officials Present at the Event
Several public representatives and senior officials attended the inauguration event. Among those present were former government advisor Vem Narender Reddy, PAC Chairman Arikepudi Gandhi, MLAs Madhavaram Krishna Rao and Ramachandru Naik, and MLC Naveen Rao.
Municipal corporation commissioners and other senior officials from various departments also participated in the event and reviewed the lake restoration works.
Future Plans for Hyderabad’s Lakes
The Telangana government plans to continue restoring multiple lakes across Hyderabad as part of its broader environmental and urban planning strategy. Authorities believe that protecting water bodies is crucial for flood prevention, groundwater recharge, and climate resilience in rapidly expanding metropolitan regions.
Through initiatives such as HYDRAA and other urban development programs, the government aims to transform Hyderabad into a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable city while balancing infrastructure growth with environmental protection.
