Hyderabad: In a display of solidarity, the Gandipet Welfare Society organised a “Save Lakes, Save Lives” special walk on Sunday at Rajendra Nagar in support of the demolition drives conducted by the Telangana government's Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Monitoring and Protection (HYDRAA). The walk received overwhelming support from students, residents, and various local associations.
The walk took place around the scenic Gandipet Lake, with participants voicing their concerns about the deteriorating condition of Hyderabad’s water bodies. Many pointed to the alarming encroachments on the city’s ponds and lakes, which could lead to a water crisis similar to what Bengaluru experienced earlier in 2024.
A member of the Gandipet Welfare Society expressed the urgency of the situation. “We are standing on the brink of an environmental disaster. If we do not act now to protect our lakes and ponds, Hyderabad could soon face an unimaginable water crisis.”
The society also showcased three bowls of water; one containing very dirty water from Tank Bund, another bowl holding the dirty water from Gandipet lake and another one with pure RO water. “The lakes’ water, due to the dumping of sewage and other toxic material, is very impure. The government must also undertake purification of waters.”
Local residents also echoed these concerns. Srinivas Reddy, who has lived in the area for over two decades, said, “Encroachments have reduced our water bodies to mere puddles. The demolition drives are necessary to reclaim what’s left and ensure future generations have access to clean water.”
Ravindra Nath, a member of a walking association said: “We’ve already seen the consequences of unchecked urbanisation in other cities like Bangalore. If Hyderabad has to avoid a similar fate, strong measures like HYDRA are the need of the hour.”
The event also saw active participation from students, who are increasingly aware of the environmental challenges ahead. A 9th class student said “Our lakes are precious. If they disappear, so will our water. We need to protect them.”
