Fri Dec 06 15:08:44 UTC 2024: ## Hyderabad’s Urban Focus Under Congress Rule: A Mixed Bag of Progress and Controversy

**Hyderabad, December 6, 2024** – The Congress government in Telangana has prioritized Hyderabad’s development since taking power in December 2023, mirroring the urban-centric focus of previous administrations. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, who retains the Municipal Administration & Urban Development portfolio, has overseen significant initiatives, including the creation of the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) to protect lakes and government lands.

While HYDRAA’s establishment has been praised, its rapid demolition drives have sparked controversy. Similarly, the Musi Riverfront Development project, though underway, has faced opposition from displaced residents and political parties. An anonymous official criticized the government’s approach, suggesting a lack of prior policy announcement and negotiation led to negative publicity despite good intentions.

Despite facing a financial crisis, the government has refrained from selling government land, a common practice of previous administrations. A substantial ₹3065 crore has been allocated to the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) in the state budget, resolving a decade-long funding shortage. Furthermore, the ambitious H-CITI (Hyderabad City Innovative and Transformative Infrastructure) project, with proposals totaling ₹8996 crore for road infrastructure and storm water drains, is underway. This includes projects like flyovers near KBR Park (₹826 crore), an elevated corridor on Rajiv Rahadari (₹2232 crore), and a double-decker elevated corridor on the Hyderabad-Nagpur National Highway (₹1580 crore). However, the effectiveness of some cost-saving measures, such as rainwater holding structures, remains to be seen.

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