Payal Shankar urges action on Hyderabad lake encroachments

BJP MLA Payal Shankar is calling on the government to review the state of 25 lakes in Hyderabad that are managed by corporate groups. These lakes fall under the jurisdiction of the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA). Shankar raised concerns about encroachments on lake beds by real estate developers. In a recent assembly session, Shankar highlighted that the boundaries of these lakes are unclear. He expressed worry that real estate projects are marketed as having ‘lake views’ while damaging the local environment. With the rising urbanization, he asked for greater oversight on how much of the lake area has been taken by developers. Shankar also stressed the need for development in Adilabad district. He pointed out that the focus should not only be on industries in Hyderabad. He mentioned the potential of the Hyderabad-Nagpur Industrial Corridor for boosting Adilabad’s growth. Despite the area being designated for urban development, he claimed that it lacks sufficient funding. He referenced a plan from 2015 where a civil airport was suggested for Adilabad, along with an Air Force Station. Shankar indicated that the state government has not made progress on this front, and past requests for land acquisition have not been fulfilled. He urged the government to communicate with the central authorities about these developments and emphasized the district’s natural resources as a reason for investment.