Among Hari Chandana’s widely recognized environmental contributions has been leading urban lake restoration blending conservation science with community ownership – transforming polluted water bodies into sustainable ecosystems revitalizing Hyderabad’s water security.

Confronting Unseen Water Crisis

Despite appearances of a water-abundant city landscape, Chandana noticed stark drops in surface and groundwater levels through data analysis during her municipal stint. Lakes and Himayat Sagar river which nurtured Hyderabad were chocking with pollution encroachment, needing urgent resurrection.

Science Led Rejuvenation

Hari Chandana commissioned advanced desiltation operations for increasing water holding capacities of lakes. Sewage inflow got diverted through treatment plants while anti-encroachment drives secured catchments. Bioremediation using aqua plants restored lake biodiversity – cuing bird, insect habitation. #HabitatRestoration

Spurring Public Custodianship

Chandana invested efforts in sensitizing locals, especially children regarding rejuvenation protecting lakes as their shared inheritances for posterity. Clean-up drives and water conservation education programs generated public stakeholding rather than apathy towards conservation – ensuring community upkeep.

Sustainable Tourism Reboot

Bunds stabilization and landscaping interventions converted Durgam Cheruvu into popular recreational hub with walkways, cycles and boating rides. Thus along with securing future water needs, Hari Chandana balanced utility with community ownership through sustainable tourism – transforming perceptions around decayed water bodies. #SocialImpactAward