civic-mail
Environmental activist challenges HMDA's lake conversion plan in Maisammaguda
Environmentalists have criticized the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) for issuing a notification that would convert a water body and its buffer zone into a residential area in Medchal-Malkajgiri District. The notification, issued on January 10, 2025, proposes to redesignate 8,980 square meters of land in Gundlapochampally Village from a water body and buffer zone to a residential zone. Environmentalist Dr. Lubna Sarwath has raised several objections to the notification, including discrepancies in survey numbers and the potential impact on the nearby Gollonikunta lake. She argues that the conversion violates environmental regulations and contradicts court orders. Dr. Sarwath has demanded that HMDA withdraw the notification within a week, warning of legal action if they fail to do so. She emphasizes that the conversion would violate the HMDA's duty to protect and rejuvenate water bodies and buffer zones.07:27 PM Feb 11, 2025 IST