What is the current water quality status of Hyderabad's lakes according to TGPCB?

The Telangana Pollution Control Board (TGPCB) data shows that none of Hyderabad's 185 designated lakes meet required water quality standards.

What are the main pollutants found in Hyderabad's lakes?

Key pollutants include critically low dissolved oxygen, high biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and toxic heavy metals.

Why are Hyderabad's lakes deteriorating?

Experts cite rampant encroachment, untreated sewage and industrial waste, poor solid waste management, and a focus on beautification over ecology.

Home / Environment / Pollution Crisis: All Hyderabad Lakes Fail Water Standards

Pollution Crisis: All Hyderabad Lakes Fail Water Standards

3 Jan

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Summary

None of Hyderabad's 185 designated lakes meet water quality standards.
Dissolved oxygen levels are critically low, with some near 0.3 mg/l.
High BOD levels and toxic heavy metals contaminate the water bodies.

Pollution Crisis: All Hyderabad Lakes Fail Water Standards

Recent data from the Telangana Pollution Control Board (TGPCB) indicates a severe ecological crisis, as none of Hyderabad's 185 designated lakes meet essential water quality standards. Critically low dissolved oxygen levels, some as low as 0.3 mg/l, render these water bodies incapable of supporting aquatic life. This alarming situation highlights a significant degradation of the city's urban waterways, demanding immediate attention.

Further compounding the issue are excessively high biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) levels, far exceeding the permissible limit of 3 mg/l, primarily due to untreated sewage and waste discharge. The presence of multiple toxic heavy metals, including cadmium, mercury, and lead, poses long-term risks to public health and groundwater quality. At least 23 lakes have completely dried up, exacerbating the environmental challenges.