A Balanced Approach to Lake Preservation and Urban Development: A Proposal for Sustainable Solutions

In recent years, the state’s initiatives to protect and preserve its natural resources, particularly water bodies, have sparked a mix of confidence and concern among its residents. While the government's commitment to environmental conservation is laudable, the approach—especially the demolition of structures in Full Tank Level (FTL) areas and other ecologically sensitive zones—has raised significant anxiety. The loss of homes, businesses, and livelihoods has led many to question the sustainability and fairness of these measures. This proposal aims to address these concerns by outlining a comprehensive strategy that balances environmental conservation with urban development, ensuring a harmonious relationship between nature and human needs.

The Need for a Lake Development Authority

To effectively manage the state’s water bodies and their surrounding environments, the establishment of a Lake Development Authority is proposed. This authority would operate under the leadership of the State Governor and include diverse members such as social activists, educational experts, and representatives from all political parties. The inclusion of varied perspectives would ensure transparent decision-making, addressing the concerns of all stakeholders.

The Lake Development Authority would have several key responsibilities:

1. Formulating Policies: The authority would develop policies focused on preserving existing lakes, restoring degraded water bodies, and promoting the creation of new lakes. These policies would be designed to align with the state's broader environmental and urban development goals.
2. Monitoring and Regulation: Regular monitoring of lake conditions and strict enforcement of regulations would prevent encroachments and pollution, safeguarding these vital resources.
3. Public Engagement: The authority would engage with local communities to educate them about the importance of lake preservation and encourage their active participation in conservation efforts.
4. Resource Allocation: The funds collected through various means, such as penalties for encroachments and state budget allocations, would be efficiently utilized for lake development and related activities. This structured approach would not only demonstrate the state's commitment to sustainable development but also ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of both the environment and the people.

Rethinking Demolition: A Balanced Penal System

The current practice of demolishing structures in FTL areas, while effective in reclaiming land, can be harsh and counterproductive. An alternative penal system could provide a more balanced approach, reducing the economic and social disruption caused by demolitions.

1. Asset Valuation: A thorough assessment of the value of any structure within FTL areas would be conducted, including both its market value and the environmental impact of its presence.
2. Penalty for Retention: Property owners wishing to retain their structures would pay a penalty exceeding double the assessed value. This penalty would deter future encroachments while raising funds for environmental conservation.
3. Use of Funds: Penalties collected would be earmarked specifically for environmental restoration projects, such as creating alternative lake areas or restoring degraded water bodies. By allowing property owners to retain their structures at a significant financial cost, this approach would uphold the state’s commitment to environmental conservation without causing unnecessary hardship.

Creation of Alternative Lake Areas

The funds collected through the penal system could be used to create alternative lake areas. Rapid urbanization has led to the loss of natural water bodies, particularly in Hyderabad. Creating new lakes or restoring existing ones would help reclaim some of this lost natural heritage.

1. Identifying Suitable Locations: The Lake Development Authority would identify areas suitable for lake creation or restoration, ensuring these new lakes meet the needs of the community.
2. Community Involvement: Local communities would be engaged in the planning and development process, fostering a sense of ownership and ensuring the new lakes are effectively utilized.
3. Sustainable Design: New lakes would be designed with sustainability in mind, including provisions for water conservation, biodiversity, and public amenities.
4. Maintenance and Upkeep: A long-term maintenance plan would be established to ensure these lakes are preserved for future generations. By creating additional lake spaces, the state can enhance the quality of life for residents while mitigating the environmental impact of urbanization.

Applying the Same Rules to G.O. 111 Properties

Properties governed by G.O. 111, which imposes restrictions on developments within the catchment areas of Osmansagar and Himayatsagar reservoirs, should be subject to the same rules as those in FTL areas. Property owners in these zones would be required to pay a double value penalty to retain their structures, with funds used for environmental projects such as lake restoration or irrigation improvements. This consistent application of environmental accountability across all sensitive zones would create a fairer regulatory framework.

Targeted Use of Collected Funds

The funds collected through the penal system should be used in a manner that maximizes their impact on environmental conservation. Key principles guiding the use of these funds include:

1. Proximity to Affected Areas: Funds should be deployed within a 30-kilometer radius of the affected water body, ensuring that local communities benefit directly from restoration efforts.
2. Prioritization of Projects: Projects should be prioritized based on the severity of environmental degradation and potential benefits, focusing on improving water quality, enhancing biodiversity, and providing flood protection.
3. Transparency and Accountability: Regular reports on how funds are spent and the impact of funded projects should be published, building public trust and ensuring effective use of resources.

Sustainable and Positive Approaches

The current method of demolition, while necessary in some cases, may not be sustainable in the long term. A more positive approach, emphasizing incentives and community involvement, could create a more inclusive environment. This approach would involve:

1. Incentivizing Conservation: Offering financial incentives or tax breaks to property owners who participate in conservation efforts.
2. Community Engagement: Encouraging local communities to take ownership of their environment through involvement in conservation projects.
3. Education and Awareness: Raising public awareness about the importance of environmental conservation through education campaigns and partnerships with local organizations.

By adopting a balanced and sustainable approach to lake preservation and urban development, the state can ensure that both its natural resources and the interests of its people are protected for generations to come.

Srikar Vemula, IRS