Hyderabad: Telangana’s municipal administration department has directed civic bodies to identify land for setting up sponge parks in all municipalities, aiming to prevent future drinking water shortages and urban flooding.
In a move modeled on Tamil Nadu’s approach, officials have been told to implement groundwater recharge systems and flood mitigation structures across municipal limits.
The sponge park model—designed to absorb and filter rainwater—will be replicated in every urban local body. They help prevent flooding, clean runoff, replenish groundwater, and bring a touch of nature back into concrete-heavy neighbourhoods.
Municipal commissioners have been sent to study sponge park initiatives in Tamil Nadu. The department noted that each park costs over ₹1 crore to develop. Senior officials have instructed ground-level inspections to identify suitable plots for immediate execution.
Tamil Nadu’s first sponge park was established in Porur, Chennai. International models such as the Gowanus Canal sponge park project in New York and another facility in Hosur have also informed Telangana’s plan. Authorities say these green infrastructure projects offer long-term environmental and civic benefits.
