Residents Concerned About Pollution in RK Puram Lake
Residents of RK Puram are raising concerns about the increasing pollution in Mukkidi Cheruvu (RK Puram Lake). They say the main reason is unchecked waste dumping, especially from local meat markets. Because of this, the lake has started emitting a foul smell and has become a breeding ground for disease-carrying pests. This is posing a serious health risk to people living nearby.
Earlier, the lake covered around 100 acres, but now almost half of it has been encroached upon. The area surrounding the lake has turned into a garbage dump, and butchers operating nearby are dumping waste into the water. This has worsened the situation, making the entire area stink.
Some residents have pointed out that despite the lake’s worsening condition, authorities have never prioritized its restoration. Currently, the lake barely has any water, and it is filled with leftover food and other waste. Even after multiple complaints to officials, no action has been taken, making life difficult for locals.
Robin Zaccheus, a social activist and RK Puram resident, said, “The situation is alarming. Household sewage is directly flowing into the lake, and illegal waste dumping makes it worse. The foul smell is unbearable, and residents are forced to keep their doors and windows shut. The pollution is out of control, with water hyacinth, plastic waste, sewage, garbage, and animal waste filling the lake.”
Another resident, Srinivas, expressed frustration, saying, “We are tired of complaining. Officials and leaders have visited the lake several times, but no real action has been taken. A permanent solution must be found soon.”
Residents are urging authorities to take immediate steps to clean and restore the lake before the situation worsens further.
