PROJECT OVERVIEW

Hyderabad is confronting a serious challenge of disappearing water bodies under growing pressure from rapid urbanisation, encroachment, pollution and ever increasing demand for domestic, industrial and agricultural water use. Shrinking water sources are having a substantial impact on local communities and ecosystems alike. This study set out to document the disappearing water bodies of Hyderabad, develop a comprehensive database capturing satellite imagery and field level analysis of degradation sources, and provide a strong planning foundation for the rejuvenation of these water bodies and their connecting channels.

WHAT WE DID

The study conducted spatio-temporal analysis of three selected basins, Mir Alam, Himayatsagar and Umdasagar, falling under the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority area, examining physical and socioeconomic parameters across two points in time, 2004 and 2012. For each water body, a detailed lake profile was prepared capturing satellite imagery data, current water spread, full tank level, encroachment, pollution and catchment features. Contour mapping was used to trace connections between successive lakes within consolidated watershed maps, and sources of degradation were identified to support rejuvenation planning.

WHAT WE DELIVERED

GIS based mapping of water bodies across one watershed in the HMDA area, linking geographical mapping with current socioeconomic data and ground level status of lakes, a final technical report submitted on the status of lakes and survey methodology, and a stakeholder workshop to disseminate findings with local stakeholders.

FUNDER

Department of Science and Technology, Government of India

PARTNER INSTITUTIONS

National Institute of Advanced Studies Bangalore

International Institute of Information Technology Gachibowli

SOUL Hyderabad