Hyderabad's Shah Hatim Lake Near Golconda on the Brink of Disappearance

Hyderabad’s Shah Hatim Lake Near Golconda Faces Extinction Amid Urbanization

Once a sprawling 104-acre water body, the historic Shah Hatim Lake near Hyderabad’s Golconda Fort is now on the brink of disappearance. Unchecked encroachments, large-scale dumping of construction waste, and sewage discharge have shrunk the lake to just 20 acres.

Decline of Shah Hatim Lake

Built during the Qutb Shahi era, Shah Hatim Lake has suffered immense neglect. Thick layers of water hyacinth now cover its surface, further deteriorating water quality and turning the lake into a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Nearly 80% of the remaining water surface is clogged with invasive plants, worsening its condition.

Additionally, discarded household waste, plastic debris, and construction rubble have transformed the lake into an unofficial dumping ground. The once-pristine water body now struggles for survival amidst pollution and urban expansion.

Failed Conservation Efforts

Despite multiple restoration attempts by civic authorities, conservation efforts have largely failed. While certain initiatives were undertaken to clear the lake and improve drainage, they did not prevent encroachments and pollution. As a result, frequent flooding occurs in surrounding areas during heavy rains.

With rapid urbanization consuming Hyderabad’s historical water bodies, Shah Hatim Lake is at serious risk of vanishing completely. Urgent intervention is needed to remove encroachments, regulate waste dumping, and implement sustainable conservation measures before this historic lake disappears forever.