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Telangana CM Warns Against Lake Encroachments
Telangana Government to Remove Lake Encroachments: CM’s Firm Stance
Hyderabad: In a strong declaration on Tuesday, September 3, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the state’s lakes and water bodies from encroachments. He stated that the removal of illegal encroachments at ponds across Telangana is a top priority and emphasized that the government will not hesitate to demolish these encroachments to safeguard the environment and mitigate flood risks.
Action Plan for Encroachment Removal
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy highlighted that the growing demand for the expansion of the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRA) has prompted the government to initiate a comprehensive action plan. He directed officials to prepare detailed reports on existing encroachments at ponds and lakes and to address any pending court cases that may be delaying the removal of illegal structures.
“The officials have been asked to prepare a report on the encroachment of ponds and lakes and also resolve pending court cases, if any. The Chief Minister gave an example of how Ram Nagar area is made a safe zone from floods by removing encroachments on the Nala in Hyderabad recently,” stated a press release from the Chief Minister’s office.
Success Stories: Ram Nagar and Other Areas
Revanth Reddy cited the successful removal of encroachments in the Ram Nagar area of Hyderabad as a model for future efforts. The clearance of obstructions on the Nala (drain) in Ram Nagar has transformed the area into a safe zone, significantly reducing the risk of flooding during heavy rains. This success serves as a testament to the effectiveness of the government’s approach and strengthens the resolve to continue these efforts across the state.
Environmental Concerns and Disaster Mitigation
Expressing deep concern over the impact of natural calamities such as floods, landslides, and torrential rains, the Chief Minister linked these disasters to the ongoing destruction of natural ecosystems. He drew parallels between recent floods in Uttarakhand and Telangana, emphasizing that environmental degradation and unregulated urban expansion are exacerbating these crises.
“Natural calamities like floods, landslides, and torrential rains in Uttarakhand and Telangana are the result of the destruction of nature,” Revanth Reddy remarked, underlining the urgent need for a robust response to environmental protection.
HYDRA’s Role in Encroachment Demolition
Over the past few weeks, the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRA) has been actively engaged in demolishing illegal encroachments on lake beds in Hyderabad and surrounding areas. HYDRA has successfully removed encroachments on significant water bodies, including the Bam Rukn-ud-Daula and Gandipet tanks. These efforts have resulted in the reclamation of over 40 acres of land, restoring these critical areas to their natural state and enhancing their capacity to manage floodwaters.
The Chief Minister’s office acknowledged the contributions of HYDRA and expressed intent to expand its mandate, potentially extending its operations statewide. Environmental advocacy groups like the Forum for Good Governance have also urged the government to either expand HYDRA or establish a new state-level agency dedicated to tackling encroachments and protecting water bodies throughout Telangana.
Public Support and Future Plans
The government’s crackdown on illegal encroachments has garnered widespread public support, with many citizens recognizing the importance of preserving lakes and ponds for flood control, water conservation, and ecological balance. Community groups and environmental organizations have lauded the government’s proactive approach and called for sustained efforts to protect natural resources.
Moving forward, the Telangana government plans to intensify its efforts, ensuring that all encroachments on lakes and ponds are systematically identified and removed. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance urban resilience against climate change and natural disasters, ensuring a safer and more sustainable future for the state’s residents.
Commitment to Environmental Sustainability
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s firm stance on the demolition of lake encroachments reflects a broader commitment to environmental sustainability and disaster preparedness. By prioritizing the protection of water bodies, the Telangana government aims to reduce the risks associated with unregulated urban development and natural disasters, while also preserving vital ecosystems for future generations.
As the state continues to grapple with the challenges of rapid urbanization and climate change, the government’s proactive measures to protect lakes and ponds serve as a critical step towards achieving long-term environmental and public safety goals.
Conclusion
Telangana’s aggressive action against lake encroachments underscores the state’s dedication to environmental conservation and disaster risk reduction. With clear directives from Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, the government is set to expand its efforts to safeguard water bodies, ensuring that illegal structures do not compromise the state’s natural resilience. Through initiatives like HYDRA, Telangana is setting a precedent for other regions in India to follow, demonstrating the importance of preserving natural resources in the face of growing environmental challenges.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is based on the latest statements and policies of the Telangana government as of September 2024. The situation regarding encroachments and environmental protection measures may evolve, and readers are encouraged to stay updated with official announcements from the Telangana state government.
