Moin Cheruvu shrinking

Osmania University: Expanding neighbourhood of DD Colony is slowly engulfing the Moin Cheruvu lands, which originally belong to the Osmania University. The lake that dates to the reign of the Nizams is now reduced to a dump yard with residents disposing their garbage in and around it. Moreover, the empty spaces are being used for alcohol consumption and other illegal activities.

Highlights:

• Encroachment of dhobi ghat by multiple parties
• Lake lies neglected and hyacinth, algae, and weeds grow unchecked on its surface
• Area of lake reduces from 25 acres to 15 acres

Moin Cheruvu, which once sprawled over 25 acres, is now reduced to 15 acres after people began to encroach the areas around it. Earlier in January 2017, the varsity management promised to develop the lake and expand it to restore its old charm. But, no action was taken to protect it.

Moin Cheruvu served as a dhobi ghat before with washer-men using it to rinse clothes of the Nizam royalty and after Independence the land was handed over to the University. But as people began to construct their residences near the lake, most of the lands near the lake began to disappear.

Srihari, ABVP Joint Secretary for the State complains, “Recently, the GHMC too is trying to encroach the leftover dhobi ghat by distancing itself from the lake and constructing a narrow lane from Ramanthapur to DD Colony thereby occupying empty spaces. The varsity management is also turning a blind eye towards the issue.”

When contacted, Vice-Chancellor of Osmania University Professor S Ramachandram refuted the allegations and clarified that the GHMC officials had only conducted a survey to help the University develop the lake and its surroundings. The VC did agree that many residences have encroached spaces of the University and unfortunately, the management is bearing the costs of maintaining those lands.

“We have not ignored the lake. We understand the history it carries and intend to restore its beauty. We prepared blue prints to protect its aquatic life and vegetation. But, to protect the lake is not only our responsibility but also of those threatening its existence. As far as the encroachment is concerned, we are not involved in encouraging such illegal activities. If the government asks us to provide our spaces, we will take it in a legal way,” he said.

Meanwhile, the age-old lake is slowly decaying with weeds growing on its surface causing problems to aquatic animals in and around it. Between the management and the government, it is the water body that is bearing the brunt of suffering.