Hyderabad: In a push to turn a neglected water body into a public space, the prisons department has teamed up with the Hyderabad Disaster Management and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) to revive the 58-acre Charlapalli lake located within the premises of Charlapally Central Prison. Director general of prisons Soumya Mishra made a request for HYDRAA’s support during a meeting with commissioner AV Ranganath, showcasing videos of the lake to underline its untapped potential and the urgent need for restoration. The lake, connected to Hakimpet and Golusu Kattu lakes via a diversion nala, currently remains free from sewage contamination — a key factor for its revival prospects. HYDRAA engineering officials outlined a development plan that includes a 3-km walking track, landscaped pathways, mini parks, tree plantations, seating areas, and CCTV cameras to improve public access and safety. Industries in the Charlapally area have expressed willingness to fund the project under corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Mishra stressed the importance of community participation, framing the initiative as a joint effort between the prisons department and HYDRAA. Commissioner Ranganath assigned his team to oversee the lake’s rejuvenation and assured a site visit would be scheduled soon. He also shared footage of six other lake rejuvenation projects underway as part of a broader citywide restoration initiative. Mishra praised HYDRAA’s commitment to lake conservation and nala management, as well as its efforts to protect govt and community lands. The meeting, attended by senior officials from both departments, marked the beginning of a significant partnership for Charlapalli lake’s transformation.
