Hanmakonda, Telangana: The release of water from the historic Bhadrakali Tank, a decision taken as part of a desilting and maintenance initiative, has sparked concerns among the local fishing community, who fear potential losses to their livelihoods. On Friday evening, the Irrigation Department began discharging 500 cusecs of water daily from the tank through a network of flood channels, a process expected to span over two weeks.
The Bhadrakali Tank, with a storage capacity ranging between 130 and 150 million cubic feet, is scheduled for desilting and the installation of 11 flood gates to regulate overflow during peak rains. The release is part of a larger preservation project, valued at Rs 158 crore, which includes drainage diversion and the construction of retaining walls to protect the reservoir from contamination.
However, the fishing community expressed deep concern over the water release. They voiced apprehension that draining the tank could jeopardize fish stock worth approximately Rs 2 crore, directly impacting their income. The fishermen organized a protest, calling for a halt to the water discharge until measures are taken to safeguard the fish population.
In response, officials from the Fisheries and Revenue Departments arrived on-site and assured the fishers that preventive steps would be taken. Plans include setting up protective nets to minimize fish loss during the water release process. This assurance offers some relief to the fishers, although the situation underscores the balancing act required in preserving essential water bodies while protecting local livelihoods.
