Hyderabad: Minister D Sridhar Babu strongly condemned efforts by certain groups to create unrest over the Musi riverfront development project. He assured the public that the State government is taking steps to support families who are displaced by the project, particularly in the areas of education and livelihood.
Speaking to the media at the Assembly, Sridhar Babu criticized leaders from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) for politicizing the issue. He questioned their intentions, pointing out that during their time in power, they did not properly rehabilitate displaced farmers in the Mallannasagar project. He added that the BRS has lost the moral ground to criticize the current government.
The Minister also reassured affected families that the government would provide Anganwadi centers close to their homes. He said that it would be the government’s responsibility to ensure education for children up to the age of six. Additionally, the government will help families with livelihood opportunities by offering zero-interest loans through self-help groups. He emphasized that a High-Level Committee has already been established to handle rehabilitation efforts, and compensation will be provided for properties in the riverbed area.
City in-charge Minister Ponnam Prabhakar stated that the government plans to turn the Musi river area into a tourist destination. He recalled how, during the previous administration, opposition members were not allowed to raise such issues, and many settlers were mistreated. Now, he said, the government is listening to the concerns of affected families and working with them directly. He also accused the BRS of using the Musi issue for political gain and causing unnecessary unrest among the displaced families.
In contrast, Khairatabad MLA Danam Nagender raised concerns about the government’s actions. He questioned why authorities are planning to demolish certain structures but have not taken action against other establishments, such as Prasads IMAX theatre and Jala Vihar, which are allegedly built on the historic Hussain Sagar lake.
