Hyderabad’s Basti Dwellers Face Renewed Hardships as Rains Flood Homes

In Hyderabad, recent heavy rains have once again submerged low-lying bastis near lakes, turning homes into waterlogged shelters. Residents, predominantly daily wage workers, auto drivers, and domestic helpers, are grappling with the dual challenges of flooding and deteriorating health conditions.

The Impact of Overflowing Lakes
Lakes such as Mir Alam Tank, Bum-Rukn-ud-Dowla, Jalpally, and Ibrahim Cheruvu have breached their banks due to the intense downpours, inundating surrounding areas. Narrow lanes and one-room homes in bastis like Sriramnagar Colony, Domalguda, and Ashoknagar are submerged, with rainwater mixing with sewage, creating unhygienic conditions.

Health Crisis Amidst Flooding
Stagnant water has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, leading to outbreaks of fevers, skin infections, and respiratory issues among children and the elderly. Residents like Shabbir Ahmed and Noorjahan have expressed their struggles, highlighting the challenges of manually removing water and managing the spread of diseases.

Government’s Response and Challenges
The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has acknowledged the issue, noting that many of these homes are situated within lake buffer zones. While officials advise caution, relocation remains unfeasible for most due to unaffordable city rents. Residents have criticized the authorities for their inaction, pointing out the recurring nature of these floods and the increasing vulnerability of their communities.

Conclusion
The ongoing flooding in Hyderabad’s bastis underscores the urgent need for comprehensive urban planning and infrastructure development. Addressing encroachments on lake buffer zones, improving stormwater drainage systems, and ensuring affordable housing can mitigate the impact of such recurrent disasters on vulnerable populations.