Hyderabad Minister Urges Citizens on Water Harvesting

Minister Ponnam Prabhakar of Hyderabad is urging citizens to adopt water harvesting practices as a critical measure to improve groundwater levels. Speaking at a review meeting with minister Mohd Azharuddin, officials from the HMWS&SB discussed several pressing issues related to drinking water supply, sewerage infrastructure, groundwater conservation, and long-term urban water management.

Prabhakar emphasized that penalties and potential double billing for water tankers would be imposed on those who do not comply with these directives. The previous BRS government under the administration of K.T. Rama Rao was criticized for failing to address future water requirements effectively, leading to a substantial lack in supplementary water supply over the past decade.

Water Management and High-Rise Buildings

Minister Prabhakar also accused former MA&UD minister K.T. Rama Rao of his failure to devise any plans regarding future water needs. Prabhakar stated, 'For over ten years, the BRS government succeeded in bringing in a single MGD of water. Now, KTR is engaging in political games, falsely promising 24-hour water supply upon their return to power.' The minister further called for a thorough examination before approving high-rise construction projects, ensuring that existing infrastructure can support such developments.

The meeting underscored the pressing need to tackle urgent urban water management challenges and emphasized practical solutions like groundwater recharging and judicious water usage. Authorities aim to balance development with sustainability, addressing immediate needs while looking towards a more sustainable future for Hyderabad's residents.