WARANGAL: Following a complaint filed by members of the Kakatiya Varasatva Sampada Parirakshana Committee (KVSPC) and subsequent orders issued by the Lokayukta over the illegal encroachment of the historic Bhadrakali Lake, revenue department officials carried out a survey in Hanamkonda.
KVSPC convener Chikati Raju alleged that Bhadrakali Lake, which once spanned over 621 acres, has now been reduced to approximately 281 acres due to extensive encroachments. He stated that several residential colonies have been developed and concrete roads laid within the Full Tank Level (FTL) and buffer zone areas, violating lake protection norms.
Over the past 15 years, more than 1,000 representations have been submitted to officials of various departments urging action to protect the lake and remove encroachments. Frustrated by the inaction, KVSPC approached the Lokayukta and filed a formal complaint.
The Lokayukta, on multiple occasions, directed concerned officials to submit explanations and appear before it. However, after continued evasions, it issued fresh orders on Monday, July 28, directing the preparation of a comprehensive report detailing the lake’s boundaries and extent. In response, the revenue officials initiated a survey.
The survey was conducted under the supervision of Hanamkonda mandal surveyor Pandyala Rajesh. Using official maps, the team began marking the lake’s boundaries, FTL, and measurements, assisted by revenue staff.
Rashtriya Hindu Parishad state president M. Bhupal, Bhadrakali Temple Protection Committee convener P. Ashok, and other revenue officials were present during the survey.
