Hyderabad floods: Minister Ponnam inspects affected areas in Old City, KTR blames CM Revanth for crisis

Hyderabad: Amid unprecedented flooding in the Musi River basin, Minister Ponnam Prabhakar conducted on-site inspections of the worst-hit areas, including Chaderghat Bridge, MGBS Bus Station, and Malakpet relief centers.

The minister was accompanied by Mayor Gaddwal Vijayalakshmi, Rajya Sabha MP Anil Kumar Yadav, GHMC Commissioner RV Karnan, Hyderabad Collector Dasari Harichandan, and other officials.

Meanwhile, BRS Working President KT Rama Rao (KTR) launched a scathing attack on Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, accusing him of deliberately endangering Hyderabad’s residents to push the controversial “Musi Beautification Project” for personal gains.

Chaderghat bridge submerged; Relief operations underway

Following the opening of gates at Himayat Sagar and Osman Sagar reservoirs, floodwaters surged downstream, submerging the Chaderghat Bridge. Minister Prabhakar instructed police to prevent public access until structural checks are completed, as the bridge’s side walls were damaged.

Residential areas in the Musi river basin were evacuated, and residents were shifted to designated relief centers. Authorities have been directed to ensure drinking water, food, and child care facilities are available.

MGBS Bus Station and Transport Disruptions

The MGBS Bus Station was inundated overnight, disrupting bus services. Alternative arrangements have been implemented: travelers to northern Telangana are being routed via JBS Bus Stand, Warangal-bound passengers via Uppal X Roads, Nalgonda-bound via Hi-Tech City, and Mahabubnagar-bound via Arangur.

Local buses connect passengers to district services. RTC officials were instructed to keep the public informed about diversions.

KTR accuses CM of deliberate negligence

KTR alleged that Revanth Reddy deliberately avoided releasing water from Osman Sagar and Gandipet reservoirs, leading to widespread flooding, in order to justify the Musi Beautification Project and secure Rs 1.5 lakh crore in kickbacks.

He cited the unprecedented submergence of Imlibun Bus Stand and loss of thousands of homes and properties as evidence of the government’s failure.

Turning to Kodangal, KTR criticized Revanth Reddy and his brother Tirupati Reddy for exerting unofficial control, disregarding elected representatives, and harming farmers’ livelihoods.

He accused the Congress government of failing to honor pre-election guarantees, announcing the “Congress Debt Card” campaign to highlight these unfulfilled promises.

Public Advisory and Government Response

Minister Prabhakar confirmed that GHMC, Hyderabad Collectorate, HYDRAA, police, and other departments are coordinating flood relief operations. Citizens were urged to avoid venturing out, particularly in flooded homes or near damaged infrastructure.

He stressed that all precautions have been taken to prevent loss of life, and officials are monitoring the situation around the clock. “The rains are heavier than anticipated. People should cooperate and follow advisories,” he said.

Political implications ahead of Local Elections

KTR called on Kodangal voters to support BRS in the upcoming local elections, warning that a strong mandate could limit Congress influence in Delhi. He also announced backing for candidate Narendra Reddy, describing the elections as the beginning of a renewed push to make KCR Chief Minister again.