Bathukamma Kunta has truly lived up to its name. Once trapped under encroachments and left lifeless, the tank has now been revived with fresh energy and vibrancy. Covered in thorny bushes and wild plants, it was once a place people feared to look at. Today, it shines with sparkling waters and scenic beauty. Freed from encroachments, the lake has become a delight for everyone and has earned recognition at the national level. Locals proudly say this was possible only because of HYDRAs intervention. The once neglected lake, now fully rejuvenated, looks so beautiful that people are in awe, wondering if its real. Residents see this as a reflection of the governments determination and HYDRAs efficient work. On September 26th, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy inaugurated the Bathukamma Kunta restoration, where locals are preparing to now grandly celebrate Bathukamma.
Inspiration Behind HYDRA
Bathukamma Kunta became the inspiration for HYDRA. With sparkling waters, biodiversity, and an eco-friendly environment, the government decided to create a healthier and more sustainable urban life for the city. To make this vision real, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy conceived HYDRA, officially launched on July 19, 2024. From the beginning, HYDRA marked its impact and became a pathfinder for the citys future. Bathukamma Kunta proved how lake development could reduce urban flooding. HYDRA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath explained that this lake played a key role in showing how flood management is possible through lake revival. Earlier, the surroundings of the tank would flood every monsoon, but now the revived tank diverts and holds floodwater, preventing inundation. Remarkably, it was restored in just five months. Once known as Errakunta, over time it came to be called Bathukamma Kunta, which is even reflected in official revenue records.
Legal Battles and Restoration
Bathukamma Kunta had nearly vanished due to encroachments and construction waste filling up the tank bed. Encroachers tried to claim it with no valid documents, only unregistered agreements. One such person, Sudhakar Reddy, had been fighting for decades. HYDRA stepped in, working with Revenue, Irrigation, and GHMC departments to uncover the tanks history and legally establish it as a lake. Numerous petitions by land grabbers like Syed Azam, Syed Jahangir, and Sudhakar Reddy were dismissed by courts, which repeatedly upheld that the land indeed belonged to the lake.
During summer, with an investment of ₹7.15 crores, HYDRA began desalting works. The moment they dug with JCBs, water began to spring up, proving the tank was still alive beneath. Locals rejoiced, stating that Bathukamma Kunta had once again come to life. The earlier claims of land ownership were silenced.
As per the 1962—63 records, the tank covered 14.06 acres and with the buffer zone, 16.13 acres. But recent surveys showed only 5.15 acres remained. HYDRA successfully revived the lake within this remaining area.
BathukammaKunta has now become a mini picnic spot. Locals visit in the evenings to relax by the scenic surroundings. Attractions include:
- A childrens play area
- Domed seating spaces for senior citizens
- A walking track around the lake
- Fencing for protection
- Boating facilities inside the lake
The once desolate and encroached lake now shines as a recreational hub. On September 26th, CM Revanth Reddy will dedicate the rejuvenated Bathukamma Kunta to the citizens, and the government has decided to host Bathukamma celebrations here itself.
Locals Express Gratitude
Residents expressed heartfelt gratitude to the government for introducing HYDRA, which made this transformation possible. They credited HYDRA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath and his team for their commitment and hard work. The thorny, unsafe surroundings have now become a pleasant and thriving environment. The revival has even increased housing demand in the locality, with residents proudly celebrating the new beauty and importance of their area.
What was once lost in encroachments has now been reborn as Bathukamma Kunta — a living symbol of revival, resilience, and celebration.
