Nizam-era Hyderabad lake gets new lease of life | In pics
The restoration of Bathukamma Kunta in Amberpet, a project hailed as a “national model for lake conservation,” marks a significant environmental victory for the city
A historic lake in the heart of Hyderabad, once lost to encroachments and reduced to a garbage dump, has been spectacularly rejuvenated and will be officially reopened on Friday. (Photo: X)
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The revival, undertaken by the Hyderabad Disaster Management and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA), will see Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy relaunch the water body during the ongoing Bathukamma festival, which coincides with Dussehra Navaratri celebrations. (Photo: X)
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The project, initiated in November 2024, involved a massive drive to clear debris, excavate the basin and restore natural water flows. According to details provided by HYDRAA, the lake now spans 4.7 acres with a storage capacity of 23.8 million litres. (Photo: X)
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Anuradha Reddy, convenor of the Hyderabad chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Culture and Heritage (INTACH), confirmed its historical significance to HT. (Photo: X)
Commissioner Ranganath described the lake’s pre-restoration state as a “virtual garbage dump yard emanating foul smell,” having completely turned into plain land covered with thick bushes. (Photo: X)
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The HT report highlights that the lake’s recovery follows a legal struggle. As real estate activity intensified in the area, individuals attempted to claim the land as private property. A legal battle between the state government and these claimants is still pending in the high court; however, the court permitted the government to proceed with the restoration, a HYDRAA official familiar with the matter said. (Photo: X)
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Beyond its aesthetic and cultural revival, the project carries critical practical benefits. Ranganath emphasised that the restored lake now serves as a functional flood mitigation system for the surrounding residential areas, reducing the risk of waterlogging during heavy rains. (Photo: X)
