‘Not to destroy but uplift’: CM Revanth reassures Musi basin families on revival plan

Hyderabad: Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy delivered an appeal in the Legislative Assembly on Monday, urging all political parties to set aside ‘narrow interests' and join the government in its ambitious mission to rejuvenate the Musi River.

Addressing concerns over potential displacement, the Chief Minister provided a ‘solemn word’ to the thousands residing in the Musi river basin, assuring them that the project is designed to uplift lives, not destroy them.

If you started the project, why objecting to it now, CM asks BRS

In a spirited debate, the Chief Minister challenged the opposition’s resistance to the project.

Responding to BRS leader KT Rama Rao, MLA from Sircilla—who noted that the previous BRS administration had originally established the Musi River Development Corporation—CM Revanth questioned why the project had been abandoned for years.

“You initiated the project but then abandoned it; now that we are taking it forward, what exactly is your objection?” CM Revanth asked, urging the opposition to move away from a ‘mindset of obstruction.’

He emphasised that the government has formulated a comprehensive roadmap for future development under the Telangana Rising 2047 vision, which includes river cleaning, flood protection and world-class urban infrastructure.

A guarantee of rehabilitation

Seeking to dispel fears among the public, the Chief Minister clarified the government’s stance on resettlement:

No Displacement Without Housing: The government vowed not to render anyone homeless.

Improved Amenities: Residents will be transitioned to better housing with modern amenities, including education and healthcare facilities.

Humanitarian Approach: Officials have been instructed to extend all necessary assistance to families in the basin area.

“We will not cause harm or loss to a single individual,” CM Revanth stated. “Instead, we will provide them with improved amenities and a better quality of life.”

A Cabinet Sub-Committee to address protests about project

Despite the government’s assurances, the project continues to face stiff resistance from the Musi Jan Andolan (MJA), a citizens’ collective.

Protesters have raised concerns over the lack of a publicly available Detailed Project Report (DPR) and the ecological impact of proposed ‘commercial riverfront’ features. Activists argue that the government should focus on stopping industrial pollution before moving forward with large-scale land acquisition for projects like the ‘Gandhi Sarovar.’

To bridge this gap in trust and provide a formal channel for grievances, Chief Minister Revanth announced the formation of a high-level Cabinet Sub-Committee.

The members of the Sub-Committee include:

Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka: Deputy Chief Minister (Chair)

D Sridhar Babu: IT and Industries Minister

Ponnam Prabhakar: Transport Minister

The Chief Minister invited the opposition and concerned citizens to submit their ‘constructive suggestions’ and advice to this committee if they felt uncomfortable approaching him directly. This sub-committee is tasked with reviewing public feedback, ensuring transparent rehabilitation processes, and refining the project’s roadmap to balance development with social responsibility.