IMPENETRABLE LAKE : The ticket counter at Durgam Cheruvu in Jubliee Hills in the city on Saturday, submerged following heavy rain on Friday. Right now it is out of bounds for visitors. - Photo: Mohd.Yousuf

HYDERABAD: It no doubt was the most scenic spot in the city. But not anymore. Durgam Cheruvu now presents a picture of a devastated area. Water flooding the parking lots and foul smell have made the lake totally inaccessible.

Friday's downpour led to a rise in the water level to nearly 23 feet against the full tank level capacity of 28 feet.

Residents of Harsha Plaza abutting the lake have constructed a makeshift bridge as the ground floor of the apartment is flooded with rainwater.

"Water that has entered a few houses is being pumped out using motors. If the sluice gates are not opened water will enter other houses too," says Pradeep Kumar, a resident of Amar Society.

As of now, water is just one foot below the road level. A downpour throughout the night means we have to run for safety."

Most residents say officials are reluctant to open all gates stating water was still below the Full Tank Level (FTL).

In jeopardy

With sewage from surrounding residential areas flowing into it in the absence of sewer network and encroachments compounding the problem, the lake is in jeopardy. The stagnated water has turned into a `breeding house' for mosquitoes.

Business at Punnami Restaurant abutting the lake has been badly hit. "Parking lots and certain area pertaining to the restaurant have been submerged. As we are making visitors to sit on makeshift furniture, it is causing a lot of inconvenience to them," says an attendant at the restaurant.

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