In the fertile lands surrounding Andhra Pradesh's Kolleru Lake, a grassroots movement has taken root. Villagers, aquaculture farmers, and agricultural workers have united under the banner 'Voice of Kolleru,' launching a determined effort to protect their livelihoods against what they see as overreaching wetland regulations.

Key facts

  • Newly formed organization: Voice of Kolleru (Kolleru Volunteers Organisation for Inclusive Conservation and Empowerment)
  • Represents residents across Eluru, Kaikaluru, Undi, Gudivada, Unguturu and Denduluru mandals
  • Opposes classifying 161,000 acres around lake as wetlands
  • Supreme Court has given state government two months to demarcate wetland boundaries

A Lake of Contention

The conflict centers on a fundamental disagreement about the lake's true footprint. Local farmers insist Kolleru historically covered about 64,000 acres—not the 161,000 acres that authorities now consider for wetland protection. That difference of nearly 100,000 acres represents homes, farms, and entire communities that could face severe restrictions if classified as protected wetlands.

Organizing for Impact

Led by president N. Sivaji Raju, the organization plans a multi-pronged approach: awareness meetings, legal studies of wetland boundary issues, and coordination with both state and central governments. They're seeking support from public representatives who understand the human cost of getting this boundary wrong.

"It is not correct to treat the entire area of about 1,61,000 acres around Kolleru as wetlands," the organization's leaders stated unequivocally.

Livelihoods on the Line

The stakes couldn't be higher for the region's residents. Organization secretary Gangadharam and members Ramalinga Raju, Bose Raju, Purushottam and Renu Sarath warn that misclassification would halt development activities and devastate local economies. Aquaculture ponds, agricultural fields, and even entire towns and villages fall within the disputed area—all facing potential restrictions that could erase generations of investment and tradition.

With the Supreme Court's two-month deadline ticking away, Voice of Kolleru represents both a plea for reason and a preparation for battle. These residents aren't against conservation—they're fighting for conservation that recognizes their right to exist on the land they've called home for generations.