Clear Kolleru Encroachments, Naidu Directs Officials

Amaravati: Understanding the need to protect the Kolleru lake area through a comprehensive action plan, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Monday asked the official machinery to take prompt action to clear the encroachments as per law.

Kolleru, one of the largest freshwater lakes in India, about 15 km from Eluru and 65 km from Rajamahendravaram, is a popular tourist attraction. It draws migratory birds like Siberian crane, ibis and painted storks.

It was declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1999 but the threat posed by encroachments in the catchment area by the land sharks has remained a matter of concern for the environmentalists. The lake is said to be habitat for 20 million resident and migratory birds.

At a high level review meeting, Naidu stressed the urgent need to protect the environmentally significant Kolleru Lake, while also resolving the problems faced by locals with a humane perspective. The meeting discussed court rulings, regulations, Central directives, local conditions, and ecological as well as contour-related matters concerning Kolleru.

Around three lakh people reside in the Kolleru contour region, and they have been facing hardships for years. The TDP Government from 2014 to 2019 made significant efforts to resolve these issues. In 2018, the National Wildlife Board recommended the exclusion of 20,000 acres of Jirayat and D-Patta lands from the Kolleru sanctuary and proposed new boundaries. A recommendation was sent to the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) accordingly. However, after objections were raised, the Centre sought the opinion of the State Government.

Speaking at the meeting, the Chief Minister said "Kolleru must not turn into a cesspool of pollution. Drain water entering the lake should be properly treated. The unchecked release of drains is polluting Kolleru—this must be stopped. The drains must be desilted to ensure smooth water flow. Encroachments on Upputeru, which carries water from Kolleru to the sea, must be removed. Silt in Upputeru should be cleared, and all outlets must be completely opened to allow free water flow to the sea. Prepare estimates and commence work immediately.”