Hyderabad: Nalla Cheruvu, also known as Uppal Cheruvu, is shrinking rapidly. Once spread across 100 acres, the lake has now reduced to just 30 acres. The area has become a target of illegal encroachment. Local residents say that apart from encroachments, the lake receives polluted water from Raa Cheruvu, which is affected by sewage and industrial waste. This has led to severe pollution in Nalla Cheruvu.
According to the Telangana State Pollution Control Board’s 2023 data, the lake’s water quality is alarming. The Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) in the water is recorded at 14 milligrams per litre, indicating heavy pollution. The Dissolved Oxygen level is just 0.3 milligrams per litre, which is too low for aquatic life to survive. Additionally, the presence of total coliform bacteria is measured at 920 per 100 millilitres of water, further proving the lake’s poor condition.
Despite efforts by the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), such as building bunds, fencing, landscaping, and even constructing a sewage treatment plant, the situation has not improved. The lake continues to be encroached upon, with a bus stand even being constructed within the Full Tank Level (FTL) of the lake.
“Earlier, this lake water was used for consumption, but now it is highly polluted,” said Naveen, a local social activist. “Despite GHMC’s lake restoration efforts two years ago and the construction of a sewage treatment plant, the results have been ineffective. If immediate action is not taken, the lake might soon turn into a small pond.”
Recalling the massive water logging in 2020 and 2021, which caused significant damage to surrounding colonies, Anil Rao, a local resident, explained, “Illegal encroachments in the FTL and buffer zone of the lake have damaged the inlets. As a result, during heavy rains, the area suffers from severe waterlogging. The state government needs to take strict action against the encroachers to prevent further damage.”
