Musi River Rejuvenation Project Will Not Harm Poor Families: CM Revanth Reddy
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy clarified that the ambitious Musi River Rejuvenation Project is aimed at securing the future of Hyderabad and will not cause injustice to poor families living along the river.
Speaking at the “Musi Invites” conference organized by the state government to discuss the Musi Rejuvenation Phase-1 project, the Chief Minister emphasized that the project is intended for the long-term development of the city and the welfare of future generations.
Project Is for the Future of Hyderabad
Revanth Reddy stated that the Musi project is not against any individual or community and stressed that no poor family would be harmed due to the development initiative.
He said the government’s vision is to transform Hyderabad into a globally competitive city with improved environmental sustainability and modern infrastructure.
The Chief Minister also invited suggestions from public representatives, experts, and citizens to strengthen the project and ensure transparency in its implementation.
Rehabilitation for Affected Families
Addressing concerns regarding families living along the Musi riverbanks, the Chief Minister explained that around 10,000 poor families reside in the proposed project area.
The government has already collected detailed data and prepared plans to provide double-bedroom houses for these families as part of the rehabilitation process.
He acknowledged that some residents expressed concerns about losing their livelihoods if relocated far from their current locations. In response, the government is planning to provide housing in nearby areas so that people can continue their small businesses and daily activities.
No Political or Commercial Motives
Revanth Reddy dismissed allegations that the project was being carried out to benefit real estate companies or specific interests. He clarified that the government’s intention is solely to improve the city’s infrastructure and environment.
He urged political groups not to spread misinformation about the project and called for constructive dialogue instead.
Learning from Global Riverfront Models
The Chief Minister pointed out that historically, many great civilizations flourished along riverbanks. He cited examples of global riverfront developments such as:
- Thames River in London
- Hudson River in New York
- Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad
- Riverfront developments in Singapore, Seoul, and Dubai
These projects have transformed cities economically and environmentally, and the Telangana government aims to replicate similar success in Hyderabad through the Musi rejuvenation initiative.
Historical Importance of Musi River
Revanth Reddy also recalled the historic 1908 Musi floods, which caused massive destruction in Hyderabad. Following that disaster, the Nizam government constructed major reservoirs such as Osman Sagar and Himayat Sagar to control floods and provide drinking water to the twin cities.
He emphasized that the current government must show similar vision and responsibility to protect the city from future environmental and urban challenges.
Addressing Environmental Concerns
The Chief Minister highlighted the severe pollution affecting the Musi River and downstream regions such as Nalgonda. Industrial waste, sewage, and other pollutants have significantly affected water quality and public health.
The rejuvenation project aims to restore the ecological balance of the river while improving urban infrastructure.
Economic and Tourism Potential
Apart from environmental restoration, the Musi Riverfront development is expected to create new economic opportunities. The project includes plans to develop tourism zones, recreational spaces, and a vibrant night economy that could generate employment and boost the city’s economy.
Revanth Reddy noted that as Hyderabad’s population is expected to grow from 1.34 crore to nearly 2.5 crore within the next 25 years, the government must prepare infrastructure that meets the needs of future generations.
Project Cost Clarified
The Chief Minister also dismissed misinformation about the project’s financial estimates. He clarified that claims of spending thousands of crores on a single statue were false.
According to him, the cost for the Gandhi statue component would be around ₹75 crore, and the total cost of the Musi project is estimated to be between ₹6,500 crore and ₹7,000 crore.
Call for Public Participation
Revanth Reddy concluded by urging citizens to actively participate in shaping the project. He invited people to submit their suggestions through the official website and assured that constructive feedback would be considered.
“Hyderabad’s future belongs to all of us. Let us work together to transform it into a world-class city,” the Chief Minister said.
