Archive · 28 Jul 2026
Illegal groundwater extraction persists near Hyderabad's Sunnam Cheruvu
In Hyderabad, an illegal mineral water extraction plant is operating near Sunnam Cheruvu, depleting the local water table and leaving nearby residents without water.
The plant continues to operate despite allegations of violating the Water, Land and Trees Act (WALTA).
Residents say they are afraid to speak out because local goons and influential figures protect the plant operators.
The operators allegedly threaten and intimidate anyone who questions their activities, making it difficult for residents to stop the illegal extraction.
Until authorities take action, the residents will continue to face an ecological crisis and lawlessness.
An unapproved mineral water extraction plant is operating illegally near Sunnam Cheruvu in Hyderabad.
The plant's operations have depleted the local water table, leaving domestic borewells dry.
Residents allege the plant violates the Water, Land and Trees Act (WALTA).
Local goons and influential figures protect the plant operators, intimidating residents who speak out.
Residents fear retaliation, including false cases and harassment, if they question the illegal activities.
- Who
- Residents of Padmavathi Nagar Site-3, Borabanda Allapur, Kukatpally zone, Hyderabad
- What
- Illegal groundwater extraction by a mineral water plant
- When
- The activity has been ongoing for a long time, with no specific start date mentioned
- Where
- Near Sunnam Cheruvu in Padmavathi Nagar Site-3, Borabanda Allapur, Kukatpally zone, Hyderabad
- Why
- To profit from the extraction of groundwater, allegedly in violation of WALTA
Residents and Environmentalists
Water Mafia and Local Influentials
Operation of Illegal Extraction Plant
Residents and Environmentalists
The unapproved mineral water extraction plant should be shut down immediately to prevent further depletion of groundwater.
Water Mafia and Local Influentials
The extraction plant operates openly, suggesting possible collusion or lack of enforcement by authorities.
Impact on Local Water Supply
Residents and Environmentalists
The relentless pumping has depleted the local water table, leaving domestic borewells dry and forcing families to struggle for basic water needs.
Water Mafia and Local Influentials
The operators argue that they are providing a necessary service, but residents claim the extraction is purely for profit.
Protection and Intimidation
Residents and Environmentalists
Local basti leaders, former rowdy-sheeters, and musclemen protect the alleged water mafia, creating an atmosphere of fear.
Water Mafia and Local Influentials
The operators retaliate by filing false complaints, misusing legal provisions, or orchestrating harassment against those who question their activities.
- Location
- Sunnam Cheruvu, Padmavathi Nagar Site-3, Borabanda Allapur, Kukatpally zone, Hyderabad
- Act Allegedly Violated
- Water, Land and Trees Act (WALTA)
- Impact on Residents
- Depleted local water table, dry domestic borewells, struggle for basic water needs
- Protection Allegations
- Local basti leaders, former rowdy-sheeters, and musclemen
- Resident Concerns
- Fear of retaliation, false cases, and harassment