Andhra Pradesh launches initiative to clean water hyacinths and revive water bodies

In a major step towards environmental restoration and sustainable development, the Andhra Pradesh government has launched a massive mission to rejuvenate water bodies across the state while creating livelihood opportunities for women through innovative waste management practices.

In a statement on Tuesday (May 26, 2026), Principal Secretary Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) S. Suresh Kumar said that wealth will be generated through the production of organic hyacinth manure under this initiative.

The initiative seeks to address the growing spread of water hyacinth, an invasive aquatic weed that is seriously affecting lakes, ponds and canals in both urban and rural areas. He said the uncontrolled growth of the weed has blocked irrigation canals, degraded water quality and disrupted aquatic ecosystems, posing challenges to agriculture and public health.

Adopting a mission mode approach, the state government plans to scientifically remove water hyacinth from identified water bodies across municipalities, villages and irrigation networks. Several departments, including urban local bodies, rural development agencies and water resources authorities, are coordinating the implementation to ensure effective implementation, he said.

Unlike earlier actions focused solely on weed removal, the program also focuses on the root causes of infestation. Authorities are implementing measures to prevent untreated sewage from entering lakes and ponds by implementing treatment systems, including conventional and natural solutions.

The main feature of the initiative is the conversion of harvested biomass into value-added products. Self-help groups of women process harvested water hyacinth into organic compost, fiber products and handicrafts, creating new income opportunities.

Mr. Suresh Kumar said the program is expected to improve groundwater recharge, increase biodiversity and promote irrigation while promoting sustainable livelihoods and community engagement across the state.

Published – 26 May 2026 22:09 IST