Hyderabad is expanding quickly, but many parts of the city still lack basic services and proper infrastructure. Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy stressed the need for equal development across all areas, not just in zones like Hitec City.
Speaking at a press conference after the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meeting on Friday, Reddy pointed out that neighborhoods such as Old City, Gowliguda, Amberpet, Sanath Nagar, Khairatabad, and Secunderabad also need urgent attention.
He said that both the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and the Water Works Department play a vital role in building the city’s infrastructure. He urged officials to make sure these departments receive enough funding and support.
Reddy also emphasized that improving education and promoting women’s welfare are essential for the city’s progress. He noted that issues like drinking water shortages, poor drainage systems, and lack of street lighting are common, especially in slum areas. He called for immediate action to fix these problems.
As Hyderabad's population continues to grow, Reddy said infrastructure must keep pace. He called it the government’s top responsibility.
During the DISHA meeting held at Dr MCHRD Institute, officials reviewed the status of various projects funded by the central government. Reddy instructed department heads to provide detailed reports to ensure the state receives its share of central funds.
He also proposed expanding the Hyderabad Metro Rail project. The current phase reaches only up to Afzalgunj, but Reddy urged the state to send proposals for the second, third, and fourth phases to the central government. Once received, these plans can help secure funding and loans from the Centre.
One key issue raised during the meeting was land encroachment in Film Nagar, Shaikpet mandal. Former MLA Chintala Ramachandra Reddy reported that illegal settlers had taken over about two acres of government land in Deen Dayal Nagar. He expressed disappointment that officials had not acted, despite multiple requests to build a compound wall around the land.
Responding to the complaint, the District Collector ordered a site inspection and report. Minister Reddy suggested forming a GHMC Lands Board to tackle land grabbing and instructed officials to file cases against those involved in illegal occupations.
Reddy also reviewed the status of Mudra loans in the city. He asked how many first-time applicants across the 17 assembly constituencies in Hyderabad had actually received loans. He directed banks and officials to prepare a full report on loan approvals.
He looked into the challenges in acquiring land for the Uppal to Ghatkesar flyover. Reddy pushed for faster progress on this key road project, which aims to ease traffic and improve travel for commuters.
He also announced that the Amberpet flyover, built at a cost of around ₹400 crore, will be officially opened on May 5 by Union Roads and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari. He asked local authorities to make proper arrangements in advance to ensure public convenience during the inauguration.