CM Revanth to unveil Musi Rejuvenation Plan on March 13; assures fair compensation to displaced families

Hyderabad: Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Sunday announced that he will make a detailed PowerPoint presentation on March 13 to address concerns over displacement, rehabilitation and compensation under the Musi Rejuvenation Project.

He also asserted that the State government is committed to transforming Hyderabad into a global city while safeguarding the interests of affected families.

Participating in International Women’s Day celebrations in the city, the Chief Minister strongly defended the Musi project, accused opposition parties of politicising the issue, and reiterated that all eligible displaced families would receive fair compensation and rehabilitation support.

PowerPoint presentation to clear apprehensions

The Chief Minister said the March 13 presentation will comprehensively explain the government’s vision to develop the Musi riverfront into a major economic hub and global tourist attraction.

He emphasised that the government is ready to provide proper relief and rehabilitation to those displaced and invited residents for discussions to resolve concerns regarding structures located within the proposed 50-metre buffer zone.

50-metre buffer zone and ‘zero value’ structures

Referring to encroachments along riverbanks, the Chief Minister stated that after deciding to implement a 50-metre buffer zone, construction in such areas was prohibited. He noted that buildings within the 50-metre buffer zone have ‘zero value’ under regulations.

He recalled that in 2004, an apartment was constructed within a nine-metre buffer zone of the Esa River, which later became a contentious issue. The government, he said, had offered seven acres of land and financial assistance for constructing new apartments, but the matter was politicised.

The Chief Minister alleged that opposition leaders were discouraging residents from holding talks with the government on rehabilitation.

Comparison with Sabarmati, Yamuna and Ganga riverfronts

Drawing parallels with other riverfront developments, the Chief Minister referred to the Sabarmati Riverfront, stating that around 10,000 families were displaced during its development. He claimed that proper facilities were not provided there.

He also mentioned the Yamuna riverfront in Delhi and the Ganga riverfront in Uttar Pradesh, questioning why similar development of the Musi River was being opposed in Telangana.

‘Nothing wrong in spending Rs 200 crore on Gandhi Knowledge Centre’

Defending the proposed Rs 200-crore Mahatma Gandhi Knowledge Centre, the Chief Minister asked what was wrong in investing in infrastructure that would benefit future generations.

He said Hyderabad must grow into a city that competes with global destinations such as New York City, Tokyo and South Korea.

Industries to be shifted beyond ORR

The Chief Minister said efforts are underway to relocate industries outside the Outer Ring Road (ORR) to reduce pollution and ease urban congestion.

He credited former leaders N Chandrababu Naidu and YS Rajasekhar Reddy for transforming Hyderabad and said the current government aims to elevate the city to international standards.

Focus on women's empowerment

Speaking at the Women’s Day event, the Chief Minister said discrimination against women persists globally, including in developed nations like the United States.

He highlighted that the Telangana government is prioritising women officers in key positions such as District Collectors and Superintendents of Police and in other focal posts across departments.

Several women empowerment schemes have been launched, he said, adding that EV scooters for college girls will be rolled out soon.

A platform to curb false propaganda

The Chief Minister also announced that the government will establish a platform to counter false propaganda on social media. He appealed to citizens not to be misled by politically motivated narratives surrounding the Musi project.

Journalist Colony in Fourth City

The Chief Minister further revealed plans to develop a Journalist Colony in the proposed Fourth City as part of the broader urban expansion strategy.

Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka, Ministers Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy and Ponnam Prabhakar, MP Anil Kumar Yadav, I&PR Commissioner Chekka Priyanka and other dignitaries were present.