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HYDRAA breathes new life into Uppal lake
In Short
- Uppal Nalla Cheruvu restored, expanded to 67.31 acres
- 2.4-km walking track, gazebos and recreational facilities added
- New inlets and outlets to strengthen flood protection
- Encroachments cleared to restore the lake’s original extent
- Three more rejuvenated lakes set for inauguration this month
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HYDRAA breathes new life into Uppal lake
Hyderabad: Uppal Nalla Cheruvu has undergone a major transformation, emerging with a fresh new identity after years of encroachments, and neglect. Once reduced to just 52.30 acres due to large-scale encroachments, the lake has now been restored and expanded to 67.31 acres by HYDRAA.
HYDRAA has developed a 2.4-km bund and walking track around the lake, besides creating gazebos, seating areas and recreational facilities for residents. The project has also focused on the lake’s original ecological role, with improved inlets to facilitate the free flow of rainwater and an outlet system designed to prevent flooding in surrounding localities.
Officials have also developed inlets to facilitate the smooth entry of floodwater into the lake and outlets to ensure that surrounding residential areas are protected from flooding when the lake reaches full capacity. HYDRAA officials said no leniency was shown in removing encroachments that had significantly shrunk the lake over the years.
The Uppal lis among three more restored water bodies being prepared for inauguration by the end of this month. HYDRAA has already opened three rejuvenated lakes to the public as part of its ambitious urban lake restoration programme.
“These water bodies are being redesigned not only as flood-control infrastructure but also as public spaces for walking, exercise, children’s activities and relaxation,” said HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath.
Meanwhile, Ranganath inspected restoration works at Thammidikunta and Sunnam Cheruvu in Madhapur and Krishna Kanth Park lake. At Thammidikunta, he ordered the removal of plastic waste collection and segregation units located near the lake after concerns were raised about possible pollution. At Sunnam Cheruvu, Ranganath suggested developing a viewpoint along the bund and increasing greenery to create a more pleasant public environment.
Reviewing Krishna Kant Park lake, one of the 14 lakes identified under HYDRAA’s second phase of restoration, the Commissioner said increasing its depth and storage capacity could play a major role in containing floods and preventing water logging in Krishna Nagar, Yousufguda, Srinivas Nagar and Ameerpet.
