The tranquil waters of Durgam Cheruvu in Hyderabad have been marred by the distressing sight of numerous deceased fish, prompting the Telangana High Court to intervene. Once an idyllic lake, Durgam Cheruvu now bears witness to a tragic transformation, with algae-infested and malodorous water contributing to the demise of aquatic life.
Recent reports of similar incidents affecting water bodies such as Lotus Pond and Chiran Kunta in KBR National Park have raised alarms about the broader issue of water contamination in the city. Despite prior conservation efforts led by various departments, local residents lament that the condition of these water bodies remains deplorable.
Expressing deep concern, Chief Justice J Anil Kumar of the Telangana High Court stated, “We will monitor the issue to ensure that the lake is brought back to a healthy stage.” The court’s proactive stance follows the spontaneous appearance of dead fish in Durgam Cheruvu and the evident degradation of its once pristine surroundings.
Upon taking up the matter, the court criticized the government pleader for hastily submitting status reports on rejuvenation works without formal notices. The bench expressed skepticism, noting, “We can’t rely on the reports of such officials.” In response, the court appointed senior counsel Vedula Srinivas as amicus curiae to identify independent experts who will assess the lake’s condition and potential encroachments without being influenced by official reports.
The court’s decision to appoint an amicus curiae aligns with its commitment to ensuring an unbiased evaluation of the situation. The appointed expert will propose a committee to visit Durgam Cheruvu, analyse its current state, including any encroachments, and assess water quality. Notably, the court referenced a successful similar initiative in Karnataka for lake restoration.
The court has scheduled the next hearing for December 22, 2023, signifying a determined effort to address the environmental crisis and restore Durgam Cheruvu to its former serenity.
