- Bum Rukn-ud-Daula Lake restored after encroachment removal
- Bum Rukn-ud-Daula Lake inspection by HYDRA Commissioner
Hyderabad: Bum Rukn-ud-Daula Lake, a historic water body from the Nizam era in the Old City, has been revived after years of neglect and encroachments. HYDRA restored the lake by removing illegal occupations and reclaiming its original land as per official records. The revived lake is now being developed as a major landmark, with preparations underway for its inauguration in January.
As part of the development process, HYDRA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath visited the lake site on Saturday. He conducted a field level inspection of the ongoing works and reviewed the progress. During the visit, he said the project represents the revival of a piece of history that had nearly vanished. He instructed officials to maintain utmost care in every stage of development to protect the lake’s historical character.
The Commissioner reviewed the construction of walking tracks along the bund and fencing on the inner side of the lake. He also examined the play areas being developed on both sides for children. Meanwhile, he directed officials to ensure proper access roads and entry gates to allow easy public access. He further instructed that gazebos be built on all four sides to provide resting spaces for senior citizens. Parks and open gyms planned around the lake were also reviewed during the inspection.
At a time when urban areas are rapidly turning into concrete zones, the Commissioner stressed that Bum Rukn-ud-Daula Lake should emerge as a major recreational hub. The lake is located near the National Police Academy in the Old City. Therefore, he suggested planting medicinal and native tree species and developing green parks. He said the greenery should be dense enough to bring a noticeable drop in ambient temperature around the lake.
He also instructed that stones used during the Nizam era be reused to preserve historical authenticity. The Commissioner reviewed wide inlets and outlets and suggested building inlets to channel rainwater from Rajendranagar and Aramghar, covering nearly 10 kilometres. He noted that the lake should help check flooding in nearby areas. CCTV cameras are also being installed for security and monitoring.
Historical records show the lake was built in 1970 during the reign of the third Nizam, Sikandar Jah, by Nawab Rukn-ud-Daula. Originally spread over 104 acres, it later shrank to 17.05 acres and then to 4.12 acres. In August last year, HYDRA removed encroachments and restored the land. Despite criticism, the effort succeeded. Local residents and elders now express happiness and admiration, recalling the lake’s historical and cultural significance. (Maxim News)
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