Hyacinth spread in Srisailam sparks ecological concerns

With the Srisailam reservoir reaching its full capacity, the Water Resources Department officials lifted one radial gate on Monday to release water downstream to the Nagarjunasagar Project, marking the second release this year from Srisailam. However, a serious ecological issue has emerged in the reservoir's backwater areas—the rapid spread of water hyacinth, locally known as Gurrapu Dekka Aaku.

- K Madhu Sudhakar @Kurnool

Since Monday night, the invasive weed has been spreading rapidly across the water surface, creating a green mat that has transformed the area into a dense aquatic garden. Locals recall similar outbreaks in 2017 and 2018, but the current spread appears to be more widespread and aggressive. Enviro