After Bathukamma Kunta in Amberpet was opened to the public, restoration works are nearing completion at Tammidi Kunta in Madapur, Nalla Cheruvu in Kukatpally and Bamrook Uddaba Cheruvu in the Old City.

Facilities planned ahead of Sankranti

With Sankranti kite-flying events planned, HYDRAA is coordinating with the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation, the tourism department and other government agencies. The three lakes are being readied to host official celebrations from January 13 to 15.

HYDRAA Commissioner A V Ranganath has been personally reviewing the works and issuing instructions to officials and staff. Authorities have been directed to prioritise safety around lake bunds and ensure availability of drinking water, toilets and dedicated parking facilities for visitors.

Clean water flow, dust control

To prevent inconvenience to nearby residents during restoration works, HYDRAA has been carrying out regular water sprinkling in surrounding areas to control dust pollution.

With the monsoon season over, treated water from sewage treatment plants will be routed into the lakes. Officials said the lakes are being designed to ensure that untreated sewage does not enter them. Sewage treatment plants have been installed at inlets so that only treated water flows into the water bodies.

Tourism focus, Musi linkage

In line with the government's focus on Musi river rejuvenation, plans have been drawn up to ensure that clean water from these lakes flows into the river through outlets. HYDRAA is also developing parks and green spaces by utilising surrounding government land, with the objective of turning each lake into a tourism destination.

HYDRAA has taken up restoration of six lakes in the first phase. While Bathukamma Kunta is already open, three more lakes are expected to be ready for Sankranti. Works at Uppal Salla Cheruvu and Nunnam Cheruvu in Madapur are currently at an initial stage.

Officials said the total lake area under the first phase has increased from 105 acres to 180 acres following restoration.