Telangana High Court Threatens Halt to Activities in Protected Lake Zone

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Posted by AI on 2025-11-07 00:27:10 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-03-27 09:45:58

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In a significant development, the Telangana High Court has issued a stern warning, signaling its readiness to intervene and halt all activities in the bio-conservation zone surrounding Osmansagar and Himayatsagar lakes. This move comes as a response to a public interest litigation (PIL) that highlights the alleged inaction of state authorities in curbing illegal constructions and the apparent disregard for environmental protection laws.

The court's division bench, led by Chief Justice Aparesh Kumar Singh, expressed deep concern over the government's failure to respond to the PIL, which was filed by Mandadi Madhava Reddy, a local farmer. The petition sheds light on the unlawful construction activities undertaken by private firms within the 10-kilometer radius of the lakes' catchment areas. Despite the court's previous directions, the government and its departments have not filed counter affidavits, prompting the bench to consider a stay on all activities in the zone.

The PIL specifically targets several convention centers, including Ananda Convention, Neo Convention, and Aarya Convention, accusing them of operating without the necessary permissions and contributing to the degradation of the lakes' ecosystem. The petitioner's counsel, P Sasidhar Reddy, emphasized that these constructions violate various environmental protection acts and government orders, as well as directives from higher judicial bodies like the National Green Tribunal and the Supreme Court.

With the court granting a final three-week deadline for the submission of counters, the stage is set for a crucial hearing on December 11. The outcome of this case will not only impact the future of these lakes but also set a precedent for environmental conservation efforts across the state, as the High Court's decision may shape the way authorities and private entities approach development in ecologically sensitive areas.

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