Hyderabad: In a significant development amid an ongoing legal dispute, the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has asserted that Bathukamma Kunta in Amberpet is unequivocally a lake, presenting decades-old records and satellite imagery as proof.
The agency also revealed that it has reclaimed encroached lands worth nearly ₹80,000 crore across the city as part of an intensified enforcement drive since it's inception from July 2024.
Decades-old records and NASA images as proof
Addressing the media, HYDRAA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath said historical evidence clearly establishes the water body's identity. He cited irrigation and revenue records from 1975, which classify Bathukamma Kunta as a lake spread over 9.19 acres in Survey No. 563/1.
To strengthen the claim, HYDRA released archival visuals, including 1971 maps from the Survey of India and satellite images from NASA (1989). A comparative video showcasing changes over time was also presented, underscoring the continuity of the lake's existence.
Court battle and ownership freeze
The issue has now reached the Supreme Court of India, which has directed HYDRAA to file an affidavit within three weeks. The Commissioner clarified that, as per court directions, no individual or entity can claim ownership of the lake until a final verdict is delivered.
He also stated that gates and boards erected around the lake were removed in compliance with legal orders, while cautioning that removing protective fencing entirely could pose safety risks.
Massive crackdown on encroachments
Highlighting its enforcement efforts, HYDRAA disclosed that it has reclaimed a total of 2,093 acres of land from encroachments across Hyderabad. These include lake buffer zones, canals, government lands, parks, and areas meant for public use.
The reclaimed land is estimated to be worth around ₹85,000 crore. Over 90 cases have been registered against violators, with further action being pursued through concerned departments.
Lakes are public assets
Ranganath reiterated that all lakes are public assets, regardless of ownership claims. He stressed that while temporary agricultural activity may be permitted when water levels recede, any attempt to alter the natural character of a lake or undertake construction is illegal.
He also acknowledged complaints against gated communities allegedly restricting access to lakes and said such issues are under scrutiny.
Restoration drive and relief measures
HYDRAA has launched an ambitious lake restoration programme, beginning with six lakes in the first phase, of which three have already been taken up. Plans are underway to restore 14 more lakes in the next phase, along with four major water bodies as directed by the government.
Addressing concerns over displacement, the Commissioner said the government is prepared to provide double-bedroom housing to economically weaker families affected by eviction drives linked to lake protection.
Evictions with due process
Emphasising a balanced approach, HYDRAA Commissioner stated that it is following court guidelines by issuing notices and providing adequate time for occupants to vacate before undertaking demolition. Recent actions were carried out only after ensuring residents were safely relocated.