Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Disaster and Asset Protection Agency (Hydraa) has initiated major restoration works at Bum-Rukn-ud-Dowla Lake in the Old City, aiming to revive the lake to its original 18-acre extent. Hydraa commissioner AV Ranganath inspected the site on Tuesday and reviewed progress on clearing nearly 9 acres of encroachments caused by illegal soil dumping.Officials are currently engaged in removing the dumped soil and restoring the lake’s natural outlet to ensure proper water flow. The commissioner also examined possibilities for improving stormwater management around the lake. As part of the beautification and community engagement plans, Hydraa is developing a children’s play area and a walking track along the lake’s perimeter. Proposals for establishing a public park nearby are also under consideration.The commissioner stated that the restoration aims not only at ecological revival but also at transforming the lake into a recreational and safe public space for surrounding communities.Earlier in the day, commissioner Ranganath visited Bathukamma Kunta in Amberpet to assess similar development works. He inspected the inlet and outlet structures, reviewed diversion works for stormwater and sewage drains, and considered suggestions for constructing a community hall in the area.Responding to complaints about illegal dumping in the Musi riverbed under Hydraa’s name, Ranganath said that offenders had been warned and would be required to remove the debris within a week. Legal action would follow if the clean-up is not completed on time.
