Neknampur Lake in Hyderabad has been recognized as a successful example of water body restoration by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). The lake has received accolades for its restoration efforts in the past, including being acknowledged by NITI Aayog for its excellence in water management.
The CSE praised Neknampur Lake for its sustainable restoration methods, such as using floating islands and a floating cycle. The lake’s water quality has significantly improved over the years, with the Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) decreasing from 26 mg/litre to 8.2 mg/litre between 2018 and 2022. Experts predict that the BOD levels will soon meet the standard for open bathing in water bodies set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Once a polluted site filled with sewage and trash, Neknampur Lake is now home to a thriving ecosystem with thousands of turtles, various bird species, and thousands of fish. Madhulika Chowdhary, founder of Dhruvansh (an NGO dedicated to preserving the lake), emphasized the importance of not just restoring but also maintaining water bodies and their surrounding ecosystems. Public awareness and efforts to prevent pollution are crucial in preserving these natural resources.
