Citizens Flag Encroachment of Crematorium, Local Lake, and Government Lands at Pragathinagar
Residents of Pragathinagar, Hyderabad, have raised serious concerns over the steady encroachment of public utility lands including a crematorium ground, the local lake known as Pragathi Nagar Lake (also called Ambar Cheruvu), and various government lands. These lands originally intended for community use such as parks, roads, and drainage systems are being unlawfully occupied or altered, threatening the environment and public welfare.
Background and Current Scenario
Pragathi Nagar Lake, a vital water body in the area, is rapidly shrinking due to ongoing encroachments and the dumping of garbage, construction debris, and sewage. Once spanning about 224 acres at full tank level (FTL), it now remains with less than 154 acres of water spread. Encroachments include unauthorized constructions, apartments, and even a temple within the lake's FTL boundary. These activities have disrupted the lake's natural function, notably its connectivity with nearby water bodies, impacting flood management during monsoons.
The local cremation ground near the lake has also been reported under threat with land encroachments reducing available space for essential public services. Additionally, government land plots meant for infrastructure development and environmental preservation have been steadily occupied or illegally used, further shrinking open public spaces.
Citizen and Official Concerns
Residents report severe environmental degradation, with the lake turning into a toxic cesspool from continuous sewage discharge. The resulting stench and potential health hazards are making life difficult in neighborhoods surrounding the lake. Efforts at sewage treatment have been stalled due to resistance from local colonies, perpetuating the pollution issue.
Activists and citizen groups have flagged these issues to authorities, demanding immediate action. Local officials acknowledge the problem and have begun preventive measures such as constructing retaining walls to curb further encroachments and filing legal actions against offenders.
Role of Enforcement and Projects
The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has been actively involved in reclaiming government lands from encroachers across Hyderabad, including areas near Pragathi Nagar. Through coordinated efforts with police and revenue departments, illegal structures have been removed, though the challenge remains substantial due to complex fraudulent transactions and political interference.
The state government's lake rejuvenation program under Mission Kakatiya has also focused on cleaning Pragathi Nagar Lake, though progress has been hampered by encroachments and infrastructural challenges. Water diversion and sewage treatment projects are underway to restore the lake ecology, but require sustained support and adherence to regulations.
Consequences of Continued Encroachment
Environmental Impact: Loss of lake area reduces natural water retention capacity, leading to increased urban flooding risks.
Public Health: Pollution and sewage lead to foul odors and potential disease outbreaks.
Community Welfare: Loss of public utility spaces such as parks and crematorium grounds affects community activities and essential services.
Urban Planning: Illegal constructions compromise future development plans and infrastructure projects.
Conclusion
The situation at Pragathinagar is a critical reminder of the need to protect urban common spaces against encroachments. For sustainable development and community well-being, urgent and stringent enforcement of land use laws is imperative. Coordinated action among citizens, authorities like HYDRAA, and government agencies is essential to restore the Pragathi Nagar Lake, safeguard public lands, and ensure the provision of essential public amenities.