Soil dumped in Musi Riverbed to be cleared within a week: HYDRAA Commissioner
Hyderabad: A.V. Ranganath, Commissioner of the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA), conducted an inspection of ongoing lake development works across the city on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.
He visited Bathukamma Kunta in Amberpet and Bum-Rukn-ud-Dowla Lake in the Old City to review progress. During the visit, the Commissioner interacted with local residents, who welcomed him and expressed satisfaction with the work being carried out. At Bathukamma Kunta, locals pointed out the return of ducks to the water as a positive sign of ecological revival. They thanked the Commissioner for revitalizing the lake.
Ranganath examined the inlet that brings rainwater into the lake and the outlet that releases excess water. He also reviewed proposed sites for a community hall based on requests from residents. Officials briefed him on the diversion of sewage and stormwater drains away from the lake.
Addressing complaints about illegal soil dumping in the Musi riverbed under the pretext of HYDRAA’s name, Ranganath clarified that those involved had already been warned. He assured residents that the soil would be removed within a week and warned of legal action if the clearance was not completed on time.
Bum-Rukn-ud-Dowla Lake Restoration Underway
The Commissioner later inspected Bum-Rukn-ud-Dowla Lake in the Old City. Once spread over 18 acres, half of the lake area had been encroached upon through illegal soil filling. HYDRAA is now working to reclaim the original area.
Ranganath also reviewed options for reopening the lake’s outlet to improve water flow. Residents thanked HYDRAA for the visible improvements and requested the development of a park. In response, the Commissioner said a children’s play area and a walking track around the lake are being made accessible.
Locals recalled the lake's previous condition, marked by stagnant sewage water and mosquito issues, and expressed relief at the transformation. They appreciated HYDRAA's efforts in restoring and protecting the lake from further encroachments.
