Residents living in the low-lying areas of Old Bowenpally are worried about flooding during the monsoon season. The renovation of the Hasmathpet lake has caused concern as drainage water is being diverted into the lake. The civic body has done some work in areas affected by previous rains but there is confusion about which colonies fall under Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) or Secunderabad Cantonment Board (SCB). GHMC officials claim that upgradation works at the lake have been completed and a small bridge has been constructed, costing 1.2 crores. However, residents of Old Bowenpally are still worried about flooding, especially those living in Abrar Nagar, Anjayenagar, Fatima Nagar Muslim Basthi, Harijan Basthi and Park Villa.
Two years ago, restoration works were carried out by spending crores of rupees, but retaining walls were proposed only for half the lake with the rest being claimed by SCB. This has left locals deeply concerned as they anticipate spending sleepless nights during the upcoming monsoon season. P Girish, a resident of Royal Enclave in Old Bowenpally, expressed frustration at the lack of a permanent solution to overflowing water in their colonies.
Residents fear for their safety and properties as their areas will be submerged in water for 10 to 15 days during every monsoon season. Heavy rainfall can cause the nala to overflow, resulting in huge damage to their properties, as was the case in 2020. They live in fear every day, knowing that monsoon season is fast approaching.
