Telangana Chief Minister Pitches Major Infrastructure Proposals to Central Government
In a significant push for Telangana's development, Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Thursday presented a series of crucial infrastructure proposals to the Central government during high-level meetings in Delhi. The CM sought 100 acres of defence land for the Musi River rejuvenation project and advocated for new railway lines, high-speed rail corridors, and airport expansions across the state.
Musi Rejuvenation Project and Defence Land Transfer
During his meeting with Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Revanth Reddy urgently requested the transfer of approximately 100 acres of defence land located at Langar Houz and the surrounding Bapu Ghat areas. This land is essential for the ambitious Musi River rejuvenation project, which is being funded with financial assistance from the Asian Development Bank.
The foundation stone for this transformative project is scheduled to be laid at Bapu Ghat in the last week of February. Bapu Ghat holds profound historical significance as the site where Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed in 1948. The proposed Gandhi Sarovar project at this location is envisioned as a world-class educational, cultural, spiritual, and environmental center at the confluence of the Esa and Musi rivers.
This project aims to reflect Gandhi's enduring ideals of peace, unity, sustainable development, and simple living. Planned features include a peace symbol, a national museum, a knowledge center, and a handloom promotion center, creating a multifaceted hub that honors Gandhi's legacy while promoting environmental sustainability.
Rail Connectivity and High-Speed Corridor Initiatives
In a separate meeting with Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy emphasized the need for enhanced rail connectivity. He specifically sought central funding for the proposed Krishna-Vikarabad railway line, assuring that the state government would provide all necessary land for the project.
The CM highlighted the discovery of limestone deposits in Tekalkode within the Kodangal constituency. The state government plans to develop a comprehensive cement and textile hub in Kodangal and Daultabad areas, which border Karnataka, making improved rail connectivity crucial for industrial growth.
Revanth Reddy made a bold offer regarding high-speed railway corridors, stating that the state government is prepared to provide 500 acres of land near Shamshabad for projects including Hyderabad-Chennai, Hyderabad-Bengaluru, and Hyderabad-Pune corridors. He proposed that Shamshabad should become a tri-junction for these high-speed trains.
"Since the Hyderabad-Chennai corridor passes through Amaravati, the Centre should sanction a railway line to Bandaru port," the CM explained. "This will significantly enhance dry port connectivity to Bandaru, boosting regional trade and logistics."
Airport Development and Expansion Plans
During his meeting with Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy pressed for the early commencement of work at the Warangal (Mamunur) airport. He emphasized the need for cargo services and maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities alongside the airport's development.
The state government has completed all land acquisition processes and recently handed over relevant documents to the Central government. The CM noted that the Warangal airport would serve not only Warangal but also Karimnagar and Nalgonda districts, significantly improving regional connectivity.
Revanth Reddy highlighted that the Sammakka-Sarakka jatara, described as Asia's biggest tribal festival, is held biennially in the region, making enhanced air connectivity particularly important for cultural and tourism purposes.
Additionally, the CM requested a survey and feasibility study for the proposed Kothagudem airport at Palvancha and sought permissions for alternative land identified at Anthargaon. Regarding Adilabad airport, he informed the minister that an additional 249 acres of land is available for development, presenting opportunities for expansion.
Positive Response from Union Ministers
According to government officials, the Union ministers responded positively to Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's comprehensive requests. The Defence Minister acknowledged the importance of the Musi rejuvenation project, while the Railway Minister showed interest in the proposed rail connectivity initiatives.
The Civil Aviation Minister assured that officials from the Airports Authority of India would visit Warangal to advance the airport proposal. This collaborative approach between state and central governments signals potential progress for Telangana's infrastructure landscape.
These meetings represent a strategic effort by the Telangana government to secure central support for transformative projects that could reshape the state's transportation networks, environmental sustainability, and economic development for years to come.
