Water Levels in Hussain Sagar Reach Critical Heights, Prompting Water Release
Heavy rains in Hyderabad have caused water levels in Hussain Sagar to rise significantly. On Tuesday, authorities were forced to release water from the lake through its sluice gates due to the high inflow.
As of 8:10 pm on Tuesday, the water level in Hussain Sagar had surpassed its Full Tank Level (FTL) of +513.65 meters. To manage the situation, officials released 1,600 cusecs of water downstream. The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has warned residents living downstream of the possible impacts.
Other Water Bodies and Reservoirs Also at Risk
In addition to Hussain Sagar, several other water bodies in Hyderabad, such as Hasmathpet, Saroornagar, and Ramannakunta Lakes, are also nearing dangerous levels. The city’s two main reservoirs, Himayat Sagar and Osman Sagar, have reached their maximum capacity.
To address the situation, the GHMC and Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) have deployed special technical teams. These teams are monitoring the water levels and ensuring the safety of the tanks and lakes during this period of heavy rainfall.
Authorities Take Precautionary Measures
On Tuesday, HMWSSB Managing Director Ashok Reddy held a meeting to review the situation. He instructed officials to carry out regular field visits, focusing on areas prone to waterlogging. The officials have been asked to conduct water quality tests in flooded areas and ensure barricades are properly set up in work zones. They also plan to address any sewage overflows.
In areas where residents are receiving contaminated water, water tankers will be sent to supply clean drinking water. HMWSSB officials have urged residents not to open manholes under any circumstances. For any issues, locals can contact the water board’s customer care center at 155313. Additionally, due to ongoing rainfall forecasts, vacations for water board employees have been canceled.
Residents Voice Their Concerns
People living near Hussain Sagar, in neighborhoods like Kavadiguda, Gandhi Nagar, Ashok Nagar, and Bholakpur, have expressed their frustration. They say that their streets flood every time there is heavy rain, and this problem has persisted for years without a permanent solution.
Pranav, a resident of Ashok Nagar, shared his frustration, stating, “We are tired of asking officials for a permanent solution to the water overflow in our colonies. Every time it rains, the sluice gates of Hussain Sagar are opened, and water enters our homes, but no lasting solution has been provided.”
Sunil, a resident of Kavadiguda, added, “Even a small amount of rain is enough to cause flooding in our area. With every downpour, we are forced to spend sleepless nights. Our neighborhood is in a low-lying area and was severely affected by the 2020 floods, with water entering homes up to five to six feet.”
Residents continue to call for the installation of storm drains in low-lying areas as a permanent fix to the recurring issue.
