Sridhar Babu urges Political Parties to Extend Support for Musi Rejuvenation Project

Hyderabad: Minister for IT and Industries Duddilla Sridhar Babu has urged all political parties to extend their cooperation for the Musi Rejuvenation project and urged them to actively participate in the preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR).

Speaking in the Legislative Council on Tuesday, the Minister said many individuals have attempted to obstruct the Musi Rejuvenation project through various means and however, the State government remains steadfast in its commitment to this initiative.

He alleged that the BRS party created a lot of hype around the Musi Rejuvenation project, but failed to take any concrete action.

"It is unfair to magnify minor shortcomings. Every issue should not be politicised, as this could harm our brand image. Our primary objective is to provide Hyderabad residents with a high standard of living by ensuring clean air and water. Revitalizing the Musi River is central to this mission," he said.

"The Musi River development project has been carefully planned to be implemented in a phased manner. There are no delays in the rejuvenation work and the DPR is currently being finalised. In the first phase, we will initiate the "Gandhi Sarovar Project" near Bapu Ghat. The master plan for this is in progress," Sridhar Babu said.

The Minister further stated that the Musi Rejuvenation project will be executed in a well-structured and strategic manner. After receiving reports from the consultancy, experts will be engaged in planning the second and third phases,Sridhar Babu said.

"The project will be carried out with careful consideration for the underprivileged residents in the Musi riverbanks. The government will ensure the people are not displaced without proper alternatives and it will work to dispel any misconceptions," he said.

He reminded that the State government has requested the Union government to allocate funds for the Musi rejuvenation, similar to projects like "Namami Gange" and the Sabarmati Riverfront, but not a single rupee has been allocated so far.

"We have also sought funds to divert 2.5 TMC of water from the Godavari River to the Musi, but the central government has yet to respond. The Union government exhibits discrimination in fund allocation towards states ruled by non-BJP parties. Telangana, being an integral part of this country, deserves fair treatment," he said.

Sridhar Babu also urged the Union Ministers representing Telangana to take the initiative and secure central funding for the Musi Rejuvenation project.

"Those who lose their homes due to the Musi rejuvenation will be provided with double-bedroom houses. So far, 309 families have already been rehabilitated, and we are ready to show records if the opposition challenges us," he said.

The Minister further stated that the State government will extend financial support to those who lose their livelihoods due to the project and compensation will be provided in accordance with the law, ensuring that no one faces injustice.