Corporate houses have been urged to utilise their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds for the development and rejuvenation of smaller lakes across Hyderabad, with officials highlighting their importance for flood management, ecological conservation and the city’s future water security.
The appeal was made during CSR Round Table 2.0, organised to encourage greater participation from the corporate sector in lake development and rejuvenation initiatives. Special Chief Secretary Jayesh Ranjan and HYDRAA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath addressed the meeting.
Focus on Smaller Lakes
Officials stressed that while major water bodies often receive significant attention, smaller lakes also play an important role in Hyderabad’s urban ecosystem.
CSR funding could help restore these water bodies, improve their surrounding environments and strengthen their ability to manage excess rainwater during heavy rainfall.
Officials said protecting and reviving smaller lakes would also contribute to maintaining ecological balance and improving the city’s long-term water resilience.
HYDRAA Outlines Lake Development Programme
HYDRAA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath presented details of the agency’s lake development and rejuvenation activities being undertaken under its first and second phases.
He also informed participants that the government has approved the third phase of lake development works, paving the way for further restoration projects across Hyderabad.
The initiative is expected to expand efforts to protect and improve the city’s network of lakes and water bodies.
Greater Corporate Participation Needed
Officials called for stronger collaboration between government agencies, corporations and citizens to protect Hyderabad’s lakes.
They said CSR participation could provide additional resources for smaller and community-level lake projects while complementing government-led restoration efforts.
Ranganath said corporate support for lake rejuvenation could strengthen environmental protection and contribute to creating a more sustainable and climate-resilient Hyderabad.
Lakes Crucial for Hyderabad’s Future
Beyond environmental benefits, officials highlighted the importance of lakes for flood control and water security as Hyderabad continues to expand.
Restored lakes can help retain rainwater, reduce pressure on urban drainage systems and support groundwater recharge.
With increasing urbanisation and changing rainfall patterns, strengthening the city’s natural water infrastructure is expected to become increasingly important.
The CSR Round Table is aimed at creating a stronger partnership between the corporate sector and government agencies to ensure Hyderabad’s lakes are protected and restored for future generations.
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