Priest’s Viral Plea Leads HYDRAA to Rescue Historic Jagadgirigutta Tank
Hyderabad: HYDRAA cleared encroachments from a historic temple tank in Jagadgirigutta, providing relief to residents and devotees. The issue came to public attention after a video of temple priest Narahari went viral on social media.
In the video, he emotionally appealed to save the temple tank (koneru), which was encroached upon and filled with debris. Responding to the video, HYDRAA commissioner AV Ranganath visited the site in January last year and assured him of action.
Jagadgirigutta is home to many well-known temples including Venkateswara Swamy Temple, Hanuman Temple and Govindarajula Swamy Temple. The temple tank plays an important role in collecting rainwater flowing down the hill.
On Tuesday, HYDRAA officials eliminated illegal encroachments and cleared about 26 truckloads of construction waste, garbage and debris from the temple tank. Part of the tank, which covers an area of approximately 1 decare, was filled with soil and was used as a parking area by local people. Authorities moved quickly to stop attempts to invade the water body.
The Order has also initiated steps to restore the temple tank, giving it a refreshed look. The move was welcomed by residents and devotees who praised HYDRAA’s efforts to preserve heritage and religious sites.
Priest Narahari stated that his 22-year struggle had finally come to an end and that he might not have seen the tank repaired in his lifetime. He thanked the government and HYDRAA for taking action.
