Durgam Cheruvu battles sewage & weed invasion

Major Decisions taken

To prevent floodwater mixing with sewage during the monsoon, authorities are also completing a dedicated storm water drain system

Officials emphasised that treated water from the STPs must be fully utilised for park maintenance, tree plantation and landscaping instead of using freshwater resources

Establishments in Raheja Mindspace and surrounding commercial zones must mandatorily use 100 per cent recycled water for construction, gardening and landscaping needs 

metro india news  I hyderabad

Durgam Cheruvu, once a hidden lake, now the cynosure of all eyes was restored but is now gasping for breath due to the fast growing hyacinth-an invasive aquatic plant has covered significant portions of the lake, particularly in stagnant pockets where nutrient-rich sewage inflows have encouraged its growth. Hyacinth reduces dissolved oxygen levels, blocks sunlight penetration and threatens aquatic biodiversity. It has also impacted boating activities and diminished the lake’s aesthetic appeal as a major urban recreational destination.

Another issue plaguing the lake is the sewage from nearby areas flowing into the lake. It may be noted that sewage generated from Madhapur, Silent Valley and nearby catchment areas is currently being treated through two sewage treatment plants (STPs) of 5 MLD and 7 MLD capacity constructed near Durgam Cheruvu but excess sewage is entering the lake prompting construction of a 1000 mm diameter pipeline from Madhapur Petrol Bunk to the I&D section. 

The work is in progress, and once completed, it is expected to prevent additional sewage inflow and significantly reduce sewerage overflow incidents affecting the lake park.

Of late, there has been a lot of criticism on social media as well print and electronic media on the depleting condition of Durgam Cheruvu. The Telangana Govt has initiated an integrated action plan placing Durgam Cheruvu protection at the centre while simultaneously addressing severe traffic congestion in Madhapur and Hitec City, areas that witness movement of more than 1.3 lakh commuters every day. Senior officials from the water Board, Cyberabad Municipal Corporation, Polcie Dept, Traffic DCPs, ACPs and Zonal Commissioner conducted a joint inspection covering key traffic bottlenecks and lake protection measures.

Officials reviewed road widening works from Trident Hotel to Shilparamam, a crucial one-kilometre stretch that frequently experiences traffic gridlocks. From Lemon Tree Hotel to Trident Hotel, authorities discussed shifting air valves and relocating electric poles to enable uninterrupted road expansion. Further discussions were held regarding widening works from Hitec City to Medicover Hospital.