Jeedimetla Factories Pollute Quazi Lake With Effluents

Hyderabad: Quazi Cheruvu, which is located near Jeedimetla’s industrial zone, is in an utter state of environmental neglect, with the water body emanating an unbearable stench, visibly polluted water.

Effluents from nearby pharmaceutical and chemical factories are reportedly being released into the lake. Locals claim that wastewater flows directly from an industrial unit into the lake, especially during rains. The water carries oily films and sometimes foam — indicators of chemical discharge.

The stench intensifies during the monsoon, and in some cases, locals have spotted dead fish floating in the water, supposedly due to toxic dumping.

“There’s a strong chemical smell whenever it rains. The discharge reportedly flows into borewells too,” said a resident. Another added that while officials have visited to collect samples — including even shampoo bottles from residents — no test results or follow-up actions were ever communicated.

This isn’t a new concern. Residents around Ganuguda village, just two kilometres from the lake, say they’ve been living with this problem for more than two decades.

At least 10 to 15 families living closest to the lake are the worst affected. A few homes have even been shut down or abandoned due to the unbearable stench and growing fears of health risks. Locals have also raised concerns about the lake’s connection to a nearby graveyard and the risk of water contamination spreading further.

Senior environmentalist Subba Rao B.V., who has known the area since 1985, pointed out how it has transformed from open space into an industrial dumping ground. “Jeedimetla was the first industrial municipality in the state. Sadly, nothing has improved. Encroachments came in, and pollution has remained unchecked,” he said.

He further added that no one can even identify the exact source of the pollution anymore, as multiple factories are involved. “The Pollution Control Board has visited several times but done nothing concrete. It’s clear there is no serious monitoring. The government isn’t holding anyone accountable.”

When this correspondent reached out to the Telangana State Pollution Control Board (TSPCB), officials initially said they would verify and respond, but despite multiple follow-up calls, no reply was received.