Hyderabad Plans Rs 225 Crore Artificial Beach Amid Environmental Concerns

Hyderabad is moving forward with plans for its first artificial beach, a significant project estimated at Rs 225 crore located in Kothwalguda. Spanning 35 acres, the development promises floating villas, adventure sports, wave pools, theatres, restaurants, cycling tracks, and designated play areas for children. While proponents argue the project will enhance local tourism, many environmentalists express serious concerns about its feasibility in a city already facing challenges like vanishing lakes and urban flooding.

Environmental Concerns

Water conservationists warn that the creation of an artificial beach in Hyderabad may exacerbate existing environmental issues. Kalpana Ramesh, a prominent water conservationist, describes the initiative as an “alien narrative.” She emphasizes that it would require significant water resources and ongoing maintenance, including cleaning, filtration, and chlorination. Ramesh questions the sustainability of sourcing this water, asking whether it would come from the river or groundwater and raises alarm over the implications of returning chemically treated water into the environment.

“Hyderabad’s natural lakes are already shrinking, contributing to rising temperatures, water scarcity, and urban flooding. Where is all this water going to come from?” Ramesh stated. She advocates for alternative solutions, citing cities like Jaipur that have successfully transformed stepwells into sustainable swimming pools, suggesting this could be a model for Hyderabad.

Financial and Public Priorities

Concerns about the allocation of public funds further complicate the project’s prospects. Prof. K Purushotham Reddy, an environmentalist, argues that the proposed beach does not align with the pressing needs of the city. Hyderabad grapples with issues such as flooded streets during monsoon seasons, inadequate air quality, congested traffic, and underserved neighborhoods.

“Public money should not be wasted like this. Sadly, in our country, public opinion is rarely considered in such decisions,” Prof. Reddy remarked. He highlights that in many places, large-scale projects undergo extensive public discussion through open forums and community meetings, contrasting this with the sudden announcements seen in Hyderabad.

Ramesh also underscores the value of preserving Hyderabad’s rich water heritage. “The city once had 6,000 stepwells, or baolis, many of which were central to community life and biodiversity. Instead of chasing artificial fantasies, why not channel these funds into cleaning the Musi River, restoring lakes, and strengthening our water heritage?” she suggested.

Officials’ Perspective

Despite the criticism, government officials express cautious optimism about the project. Jayesh Ranjan, the Special Chief Secretary (FAC) of the Department of Tourism and Culture in Telangana, noted that the proposal is still in the early stages of review. “We received the proposal a few days ago. It is still under review, but it is definitely a concept we would like to support on behalf of the Government,” Ranjan stated. He adds, “It’s creating something that’s missing for us; there are many tourists who enjoy a beach holiday.”

As discussions continue, the balance between developmental aspirations and environmental sustainability remains a critical focus for Hyderabad’s future.