In a significant announcement aimed at boosting infrastructure in northern Telangana, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Thursday unveiled a major development package for Adilabad district. The cornerstone of this push is a firm commitment to make the Adilabad airport fully operational within the next twelve months.
Airport and University: Twin Engines for Growth
Addressing a public gathering in Adilabad as part of the Congress government's second-anniversary 'Praja Palana' celebrations, the Chief Minister painted a vivid picture of the district's future. "It is not a red bus, it will be an Airbus that will land in Adilabad," Revanth Reddy declared, emphasizing the transformative potential of air connectivity. He asserted that the ready airport would act as a magnet for investments into what is currently considered a backward region.
Alongside the airport, the state government plans to establish a university in the district. The preferred location is Indravelli, and the institution is likely to be named after tribal leader Komaram Bheem or as Indravelli University. This move is aimed at enhancing higher education access and fostering regional development.
Reviving Key Projects and Industries
The development blueprint extends beyond aviation and education. The Chief Minister reaffirmed his administration's dedication to completing the long-pending Pranahitha-Chevella irrigation project. He also announced plans to construct a barrage at Tummidihatti, stating he would return to Adilabad within two months to lay its foundation stone after reviewing district issues.
In a bid to rejuvenate local industry, efforts will be made to revive the Cement Corporation of India (CCI) unit in Adilabad through private participation. The CM recalled his personal connection to the region, noting that his first signature after assuming power was to develop the Indravelli martyrs' memorial as a tourist spot and provide Indiramma houses to the families of the martyrs.
Seeking Cooperation and Contrasting Governance Styles
Revanth Reddy highlighted the need for collaborative federalism, stating that both the state and the Centre must work together on welfare and development. He revealed that Union Ministers Rajnath Singh and K. Rammohan Naidu have assured cooperation for the airport project provided land is allotted, and that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has promised funds.
He specifically urged BJP MLA from Adilabad, Payal Shankar, to help secure necessary clearances from the Maharashtra government for the Tummidihatti barrage. He criticized the previous BRS regime, alleging it abandoned a previously agreed 150-metre barrage with Maharashtra to focus on the Kaleshwaram project, whose barrages later suffered damages.
Contrasting his government's approach with the past, the CM said, "During the 10 years of BRS govt, opposition leaders were not given a chance... Now, such situations do not exist." He promised to work with local MLA Shankar and BJP MP Godam Nagesh for the region's comprehensive development, marking a shift towards inclusive governance.
