Barlakunta Lake: A Forgotten Treasure Brought Back to Life
Barlakunta Lake, once a vital freshwater body nestled in the heart of Hyderabad, had long suffered the consequences of urban neglect — choked with weeds, clogged by plastic, and stripped of its natural glory. But today, thanks to the persistent efforts of Dhruvansh NGO, this lake is slowly being transformed back into a thriving ecosystem, teeming with life and purpose.
The Beginning of a Movement
In early 2024, Dhruvansh NGO adopted Barlakunta Lake as part of its mission to restore urban lakes and rejuvenate Hyderabad’s rapidly deteriorating water bodies. What began as a cleanup initiative soon evolved into a full-fledged ecological restoration project.
We conducted thorough surveys, collaborated with local communities, schools, and civic bodies, and implemented sustainable strategies to bring lasting change.
Restoration Activities: More Than Just Cleaning
Restoring Barlakunta Lake was not just about removing garbage — it was about reviving an entire ecosystem. Here’s what our team has been working on:
- Desilting & Deepening: The lakebed was desilted to improve water storage and groundwater recharge.
- Native Plantation Drive: Over 1,000 native saplings were planted along the lake’s periphery to promote biodiversity and prevent soil erosion.
- Waste Removal & Segregation: Volunteers removed tonnes of plastic waste and installed segregation bins for future waste management.
- Bird & Biodiversity Monitoring: The return of species such as herons, kingfishers, and dragonflies shows signs of ecological recovery.
- Community Engagement: Local schools and residents actively participate in awareness campaigns, eco-walks, and weekly lake clean-ups.
A Green Learning Hub
Dhruvansh has transformed Barlakunta Lake into a “living classroom.” Educational workshops on water conservation, biodiversity, composting, and sustainable living are regularly held by our volunteers, turning the lake into a beacon of environmental education for students and youth.
Challenges and Hope
Despite progress, challenges remain — illegal dumping, lack of sewage treatment, and encroachments continue to threaten the lake. But the support from local citizens, school children, and eco-volunteers fuels our determination to keep going.
Barlakunta Lake is more than just a water body — it is a symbol of what community-driven change can achieve.
Join Us
At Dhruvansh NGO, we believe in restoring balance — between people and nature. Barlakunta Lake is just one of the many lakes we hope to revive in Hyderabad.
If you’re passionate about the environment and want to be part of something meaningful, we invite you to:
✅ Volunteer with us
✅ Sponsor a sapling or waste bin
✅ Spread the word
Together, we can bring Hyderabad’s lakes back to life — one ripple at a time.
Connect With Us
🌐 www.dhruvansh.org
📧 info@dhruvansh.org
📍 Barlakunta Lake, Hyderabad
